Evolution Vocab

Front

Separate evolutionary origins, superficially similar due to natural selection.

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Analogous.

Front

Change occurs through slow, continuous processes; large changes result from small accumulations (e.g., mountain erosion).

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Gradualism

Front

Evolutionary process leading to new species.

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Speciation

Front

Species are generally stable, but rapid changes are called...

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Punctuated Equilibrium

Front

Change in a biological object due to related species' genetic changes.

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Co-Evolution

Front

Degenerate, rudimentary structure that has lost function through evolution.

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Vestigial

Front

Similar characters in different organisms inherited from a common ancestor.

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Homologous

Front

Organisms not closely related evolve similar traits due to adapting to similar environments.

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Convergent Evolution

Front

Rapid diversification of organisms into new forms due to environmental changes and new resources.

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Adaptive Radiation

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Species suited to their environment survive and reproduce.

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Natural Selection