Hi any links or ideas?
Given darwins theory of evolution, what scientific evidence best supports evolution by natural selection?
Check this site.
http://evolution.berkeley.edu/evolibrary/search/topicbrowse2.php?topic_id=46
Certainly! Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection is supported by a vast amount of scientific evidence from various fields of study. Here are some key pieces of evidence that support his theory:
1. Fossil Records: Fossils provide a record of past life on Earth. They show a progression of increasingly complex organisms over time, indicating gradual changes and the existence of ancestral forms. Transitional fossils, such as Tiktaalik (a creature with fish-like and amphibian-like features), provide evidence of intermediate stages between different groups of organisms.
2. Comparative Anatomy: The study of anatomical similarities and differences among organisms supports the idea of common ancestry. Homologous structures (e.g., the bone structure of forelimbs in mammals) suggest that different species share a common evolutionary origin. Vestigial structures (e.g., the appendix in humans) also indicate remnants of once-functional organs that have lost their purpose over time.
3. Molecular Evidence: Comparisons of DNA and proteins among different species reveal similarities that support evolution. For example, humans share a significant amount of DNA with our closest living relatives, chimpanzees. The degree of genetic similarity between species is consistent with the idea that we share a common ancestor.
4. Biogeography: The geographical distribution of species across continents and islands supports the concept of evolution. The patterns of distribution can be explained by the evolution of species from common ancestors in specific regions. For example, the similarities between marsupial species in Australia and placental mammals elsewhere demonstrate evolutionary divergence due to geographic isolation.
5. Direct Observations: Experimental evidence and observational studies demonstrate natural selection in action. Examples include the evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria, the adaptation of insects to pesticide exposure, and the peppered moth's response to industrial pollution.
To explore these concepts further and access more detailed information, I recommend exploring reputable scientific sources such as peer-reviewed scientific journals, textbooks on evolutionary biology, and educational websites like those provided by renowned museums, universities, and scientific institutions.