Evolution Flashcards
Biological Evolution
Any genetic change in a population that is inherited over several generations.
Biological species
A group of organisms with similar characteristics that interbreed with one another to produce fertile offspring.
Population
A group of individuals of the same species occupying a particular habitat
Punctual Equilibrium
Evolution characterized by long periods of little or no change followed by short periods of rapid change.
Geologists
Scientists who study the Earth’s structure
Paleontology
The study of fossils
Extant
Still living today.
Analogous Structures
Features that appear to be similar or have similar functions but have evolved in different ways or have a different origin.
Homologous Structures
Characteristics that are shared by related organisms because they have inherited them from a common ancestor.
Convergent Evolution
When organisms that aren’t closely related evolve similar adaptations independently.
Divergant Evolution
When species evolve from a common ancestor and so share similar characteristics.
Modification by descent
The way inherited characteristics change over time in related organisms.
Vestigial Structures
Small, poorly developed structures that are inherited from a common ancestor but have no real use. -i.e. An appendix
Natural Selection
Mechanism by evolution whereby organisms survive if they have characteristics that make them suited to the environment.
Artificial Selection
Human-driven selection force
