Natural Selection - Descent with Modification

Darwin’s hypothesis: Evolution explains life’s unity and diversity, defined as changes in genetic makeup over time.

Key Concepts

• Descent with Modification: Evolution through modification relies on traits passed through generations.

• Adaptation: Traits that provide evolutionary advantages.

• Phenotype: Physical expressions of traits.

• Genotype: Actual genetic makeup.

• Gene Pool: Frequency of gene types in a population.

• Population: Smallest evolving unit.

Natural Selection Types

• Directional Selection: Environment favors one extreme trait.

• Stabilizing Selection: Environment favors intermediate traits.

• Disruptive Selection: Environment favors both extreme traits.

Conclusion

Natural selection acts on organism phenotypes.