Evolutionary Biology Quiz

Which of the following is NOT one of the four types of data that document the pattern of evolution and illuminate how it occurs?

• Direct observations

• Homology

• The fossil record

• Genetic mutations

What does the term 'homology' refer to in the context of evolutionary biology?

• The study of geographical distribution of species

• The comparison of body structures in different species

• The observation of evolutionary changes in species over time

• The analysis of DNA sequences to understand evolutionary relationships

What allows MRSA bacteria to survive and reproduce at higher rates when exposed to methicillin?

• They are naturally immune to all antibiotics.

• They use the same enzyme for cell wall synthesis as non-resistant bacteria.

• They use a different enzyme for cell wall synthesis.

• They deactivate methicillin directly.

What is a characteristic of MRSA strains in relation to antibiotics?

• They are sensitive to methicillin and other antibiotics.

• They are now resistant to only methicillin.

• They are now resistant to many antibiotics.

• They have been completely eradicated by antibiotics.

What does natural selection do according to the text?

• Creates new traits in a population

• Selects for traits already present in the population

• Prevents evolution in species with short generation times

• Changes the local environment to favor certain traits

In which species can evolution by natural selection occur rapidly?

• Species with long generation times

• Species with no variation in traits

• Species with short generation times

• Species that are not affected by their environment

What determines which traits will be selected for or against in a population?

• The genetic makeup of the individuals

• The current local environment

• The presence of drug-resistant bacteria

• The rate of reproduction in the species

What is homology?

• The process by which evolution occurs

• A type of natural selection

• Similarity resulting from common ancestry

• The difference in characteristics between species

Can related species have characteristics that are similar but function differently?

• No, related species always have different characteristics

• Yes, but only if they are from the same habitat

• No, related species always have the same function for their characteristics

• Yes, related species can have characteristics with underlying similarity that function differently

What is the function of the bones in a salamander's hindlimb?

• They serve no function.

• They are vestigial bones.

• They function in support and locomotion.

• They are only present in adult salamanders.