The picture shows the skull of an extinct aquatic animal and the skull of a present-day gray whale. Further testing of the skulls suggests that the extinct animal is an ancestor of the gray whale.
How do these skulls best support Darwin’s theory of evolution?
These skulls best support Darwin's theory of evolution by providing evidence of common ancestry and descent with modification. According to Darwin's theory, species evolve over time through the process of natural selection, with those best adapted to their environment surviving and reproducing successfully.
By comparing the skulls of the extinct aquatic animal and the present-day gray whale, scientists can identify important similarities and differences. The fact that both skulls share significant structural features and characteristics suggests a shared ancestry. It indicates that the extinct animal and the gray whale share a common evolutionary history.
Additionally, the presence of certain adaptations in both skulls also supports Darwin's theory. If the two skulls exhibit similar adaptations, such as specialized teeth for filter feeding in the case of the gray whale, it suggests that these traits were beneficial and conferred advantages in both species' respective environments. This is consistent with the idea of natural selection favoring advantageous traits over time.
Overall, the comparison of these skulls provides concrete evidence for the concept of common descent and supports Darwin's theory of evolution by showcasing the evolutionary relationships between different species and the selection pressures that shape their adaptations.