Question

1. Darwins theory of evolution by natural selection is the logical outcome of 4 testable predictions or postulates. List and define them:

2. How is the word "fitness" defined by biologists compared to everyday use?

Answer 1

Answer 1: Darwins theory of evolution by natural selection is the logical outcome of 4 testable predictions or postulates

1) Individuals within species are variable : The individuals of a species have some variable features or characters

2) Some of these variations are heritable : The some of these varaible charcter can transfer from one generation to another generation.

3) More offspring are produced than can survive : The offsprings survive in a particular environment has the lesser number as compared to they are generated by reproduction.

4) Those who survive and reproduce tend to be those that have the most favorable variations (in
the present environment) ie: survival of the fittest (a term used by Darwin) : The fittest organism survive where as all other dies in the environment.

Answer: Fitness is the ability of organism or individual to survive, find a mate, produce offspring and ultimately leave its genes in the next generation in a particular environment.