Selection and Speciation

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What is Convergent Evolution?

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A process where different species evolve similar traits independently, often due to similar environmental pressures.

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What is Stabilizing Selection?

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A type of natural selection that favors average individuals in a population, reducing variation.

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What is Gradualism?

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The theory that evolution occurs slowly and steadily over long periods of time.

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What is Punctuated Equilibrium?

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The theory that evolution occurs in rapid bursts followed by long periods of stability.

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What are Analogous Structures?

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Body parts in different species that have similar functions but do not share a common ancestor.

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What are Homologous Structures?

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Body parts in different species that share a common ancestry but may have different functions.

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What are Vestigial Organs?

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Body parts that have lost their original function through evolution.

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What is Speciation?

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The process by which new species arise from existing species.

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What is Directional Selection?

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A type of natural selection that favors one extreme phenotype over others.

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What is Disruptive Selection?

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A type of natural selection that favors extreme phenotypes at both ends of the spectrum.