Evolution Flashcards
what is evolution?
the changes in organisms over generations
what is vertical gene transfer?
where genes are transferred from parent to offspring as a result of sexual/ asexual reproduction
what is horizontals transfer?
where genes are transferred between individuals from same generation
what organisms can use vertical gene transfer?
Eukaryotes and Prokaryotes
what organisms can use horizontal gene transfer?
prokaryotes -> prokaryotes
prokaryotes -> eukaryotes
what are the benefits of using horizontal gene transfer?
faster
can exchange genetic material rapidly resulting in faster evolutionary change
which organisms have a more rapid natural selection?
prokaryotes
what is natural selection?
the non random increase in frequency or DNA sequences that increase survival
what happens during natural selection?
the organisms which are better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing in their favourable genes to the next generation
what are 3 ways natural selection can affect an organisms characteristics (phenotype)
stabilising selection
directional selection
disruptive selection
what is stabilising selection?
when the average phenotype is selected for and the two extremes are selected against
what is directional selection?
when one extreme phenotype is selected for and the average and other extreme selected against
what is disruptive selection?
when both extremes phenotypes are selected for and the average selected against
