Introduction to Evolution

Flashcards covering key concepts from Chapter 11 on evolution, including definitions and descriptions of microevolution, macroevolution, and the Linnaean hierarchy.

What is evolution?

Evolution is the process of change over time.

What is microevolution?

Microevolution refers to changes that occur within a biological population.

What is macroevolution?

Macroevolution is the accumulation of microevolutions that result in the origins of a new species.

What does the theory of evolution state?

The theory of evolution states that all species present on Earth today are descendants of a single common ancestor and all species represent the product of millions of years of accumulated microevolutionary changes.

What is the Linnaean hierarchy from broadest to narrowest?

The Linnaean hierarchy is Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species.

What is convergent evolution?

Convergent evolution is the development of similar structures in unrelated organisms with similar lifestyles.

What are vestigial traits?

Vestigial traits are nonfunctional or greatly reduced features of a species.