Daily Newsletter
August 31, 2012 Evolution
***NOTE: This Newsletter is coming out early.
Remember that as scientists we build models to help us understand how the world works, and to provide the ability to predict and control natural phenomena. Evolutionary theory is no different. The model we create regarding evolution allows us to look at the diversity and interrelation of living organisms, understand strong connections between organisms, and even understand what happens when population sizes get low (endangered species). Our modern model of evolution can be stated at a simple level as the changes in phenotypic frequencies within a population through time. Let's analyze that statement:
- Phenotype: This is the physical, expressed form of an organism.
- Population: A group of individuals of the same species inhabiting the same time and space (habitat).
- Unless there is an identical twin, each organism in a population is phenotypically unique (diversity).
- Even with this diversity, there is a range of expressed phenotypes; or a phenotypic ratio.
- Evolution looks at this phenotypic ratio over time to see if there are changes.
- Another way to look at this right now is to say that we are looking at the PREVALENCE of a given phenotype (characteristic) over time.
Brush up on evolution by reviewing the material found at Evolution 101 and the Evolution FAQ.
Once you have finished reviewing these sites, read the following article:
Daily Challenge: Evolution
This challenge has two components. First I would like you to discuss the modern concept of evolution in your own words by answering the question: What is Evolution? Second, I would like you to read the above article and discuss the following question: How does evolutionary theory inform the conclusion to this article? Another way to put this, how does evolutionary theory inform the author's conclusion about the stability of grasslands.Evolution Discussion Forum
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