Evidence of Evolution

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and ideas related to evidence of evolution, focusing on vocabulary, main ideas, and examples from the lecture notes.

What is biogeography?

The study of the distribution of organisms around the world.

What are homologous structures?

Anatomical features in different species that share a common ancestry.

What are analogous structures?

Body parts in different species that have similar functions but do not share a common ancestor.

What are vestigial structures?

Body parts that have lost their original function through evolution.

What were the main sources of evidence for evolution during Darwin's time?

Fossils, geography, developmental similarities, and anatomy.

What did Darwin observe about island species during the Beagle expedition?

Island species closely resemble the species on the nearest mainland but are not identical.

How do different environmental conditions affect species, as noted with Darwin's finches?

Differing conditions favor different traits in species, leading to speciation.

What is an example of local adaptation observed in Darwin's finches?

The finches have evolved different beaks suited for distinct sources of food on different islands.

How do embryonic similarities among vertebrates support Darwin's theory?

Similar features in vertebrate embryos suggest a common ancestral origin.

What is a notochord and its significance in chordates?

A flexible support rod in the backs of chordate embryos that contributes to vertebral column development.

What are pharyngeal arches and their developmental roles?

Structures in chordate embryos that develop into various features in adults, such as gills in fish and throat structures in humans.