Evolution (Exam 4) Flashcards
Charles Darwin
originator of theory of evolution. Natural selection is the driving force of change in population. Genetic features that will help organisms survue, they are favorable. Selecting to improve fitness
vestigeal structures
once useful, not so much now. For example, jaw sie, teeth size, ear muscles. These are features that were once very prominent
how can the age of a fossil be found?
A paleontologist will take photographs, measure, dust, magnify and analyze location of a fossil to understand its age
Radiocarbon (C14) dating
A more efficient and modern way of detecting the amount of C14 (a type of carbon) a fossil contains since it can stay in it for 5600 years.
Types of adaptation
- Mimicry
- Protective coloration
- protective resemblance
- countershading
- disruptive coloration
cast
exact representation of an organism
mold
hallow space of an organisms impression
Mimicry: MONARCH BUTTERFLY
Similarity in appearance of one animal to another that has protective value. Enemies will avoid one or both.
Protective coloration (DEAD LEAF BUTTERFLY)
coloration of an animal which is similar to its environment. Basically camouflage
Protective Resemblance (LEAF BUTTERFLY)
resemblance of the shape of an animal’s body with objects in its environment. A leaf butterflys wings are shaped like a leaf
Countershading (SHARKS, FROGS, FISH)
Shading of an animals body that is dark on the dorsal surface and light on the ventral surface.
Disruptive Coloration (ZEBRA)
the coloration of the body is disrupted by stripes of sport which resemble dark and light regions such as by the sun coming through foliage. Predators will find it hard to attack a zebra that is running with the herd
What is the half life of radio carbon?
5,600
How can you tell the age of a fossil?
the layer of rock of which the fossil was found and carbon 14 or radiocarbon dating
what is aposematic coloration
distinctive color that warns off a predator. (SKUNK)
