Evolution Flashcards
What is a concise definition of biological evolution?
A change in the allele frequency of a population’s gene pool over successive generations
What is a pentadactyl limb?
A limb with 5 digits, such as a human hand or foot
- Found in many amphibia, reptiles, birds, and mammals (animals)
- Can allow us to deduce that all species in these categories derived from one common ancestor.
What is a homologous structure?
Structures derived from a common ancestor but found in different species. They share a similar form, but not always the same function.
What are melanistic insects?
Insect, e.g. Moths, which have a dark form because of an increased amount of pigmentation (melanin)
What is divergent evolution?
A process where the genes found in 2, or more, populations (or species) become gradually more different with each successive generation - as a result of different selection pressures in natural selection
What are heritable characteristics?
Characteristics that can be passed down from one generation to the next through genes
What is adaptive radiation?
An evolutionary pattern in which several species evolve from a single ancestor species, each with different adaptations for their habitat.
What is selective breeding?
The breeding of selected organisms which have desired traits - so that their offspring will have similar desirable characteristics