Topic: Evolution and Natural Selection

Introduction to Evolution

Evolution is the process of change over time in living organisms.

Proposed by Charles Darwin in his book "On the Origin of Species" in 1859.
Evidence of Evolution

Fossil Record:
Provides a chronological sequence of life on Earth.
Shows transitions between different species.
Comparative Anatomy:
Similarities and differences in structure among different species suggest common
ancestry (homologous structures).
Embryology:
Similarities in early stages of development among different organisms.
Molecular Biology:
DNA and protein sequences provide evidence of evolutionary relationships (e.g.,
genetic similarities between species).
Mechanisms of Evolution

Natural Selection:
Individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.
Leads to differential survival and reproduction of organisms.
Genetic Drift:
Random changes in allele frequencies in small populations.
Gene Flow:
Movement of alleles between populations through migration.
Adaptation

Traits that increase an organism's fitness in a specific environment.

Result of natural selection acting on heritable variation.
Speciation

Formation of new species from existing ones.

Can occur through geographic isolation, reproductive isolation, or genetic
divergence.
Patterns of Evolution

Convergent Evolution:
Unrelated species evolve similar traits due to similar environmental pressures.
Divergent Evolution:
Related species evolve different traits due to different environmental pressures.
Co-evolution:
Reciprocal evolutionary change between interacting species.
Human Evolution

Evolutionary history of hominids leading to Homo sapiens.

Fossil evidence, genetic studies, and cultural evolution.
Key Terms:

Natural selection
Adaptation
Speciation
Homologous structures
Genetic drift
Homework Assignment:

Research and write a brief report on one piece of evidence for evolution (fossil
record, comparative anatomy, embryology, or molecular biology).
Next Class:

Discussion on current theories in evolutionary biology and applications of

evolutionary principles in medicine and agriculture.
Note: These notes are intended as a study aid and may not cover all aspects
discussed in class. Please refer to the textbook for additional information.