The evolution of versatility

Question 1

define hominin (not to be confused with hominid)

Answer 1

the group consisting of modern humans, extinct human species and all our immediate ancestors (including members of the genera Homo, Australopithecus, Paranthropus and Ardipithecus).

Question 2

did normal climatic fluctuations have a drastic effect on hominins?

Answer 2

Normal climatic fluctuations appeared to have little effect on the survivability of hominin genera which persisted for long periods of time

Question 3

define genus

Answer 3

= a principal taxonomic category that ranks above species and below family

Question 4

the adaptability of an organism to:

Answer 4

• endure environ change
• thrive in novel environs
• spread to new habitats
• respond in new ways to the surroundings

Question 5

what is variability selection?

Answer 5

a process by which particular combinations of genes are favoured (increased in the gene pool) due to instability in the survival conditions over time

resulting adaptations enlarge the options available to the organisms - the way in which the species will use its surroundings

adaptation to novelty and to change itself

Question 6

what is gene regulation?

Answer 6

Gene regulation is the process by which a cell is able to control which genes in its DNA are expressed (used to make a functional product such as a protein).

Question 7

what is the purpose of gene regulation?

Answer 7

Sophisticated programs of gene expression are widely observed in biology, for example to trigger developmental pathways, respond to environmental stimuli, or adapt to new food sources.

Gene regulation is essential for viruses, as it increases their versatility and adaptability.

Question 8

what are some Potential evolutionary responses to prolonged climatic variability?

Answer 8

• onset and spread of novel behaviors and ecological interactions
• morphological change, speciation, extinction