Introduction Flashcards
1
Q
Define ‘phylogeny’.
A
The history of evolution of a species in terms of lines of descent.
2
Q
What is a vestigial structure?
A
Structures that have no apparent function and are residual parts from a past ancestor.
3
Q
What are homologies?
A
Similarities between organisms due to common ancestory.
4
Q
What are analogies?
A
Similarities due to parallel selective pressures - similarities in function but different evolutionary origin.
5
Q
Describe ‘variation’.
A
This is when individuals in any generation are somewhat different form each other.
6
Q
Describe ‘heredity’.
A
Variation of characteristics is passed down the generations
7
Q
What is the definition of natural selection?
A
The differential survival and reproduction of individuals due to differences in phenotype
