.... of genetic diversity? I have read a lot of Qs/As on evolution and natural selection, and there seems to be a theme developing. Where are so many people getting this idea that natural selection is purely deleterious (traits can only be lost), and that evolution serves to 'simplify' organisms? Are they being taught this at school, or what?
2007-06-07 20:30:50 · 4 answers · asked by mant 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
Greg - please do. I know, I must have gad some crazy dreams!!
When I say deleterious, I am relating phenotype observation back to genotype mutation (if that makes sense). Many people on this website seem to be under the impression that traits can only be removed by natural selection...
2007-06-07 21:56:25 · update #1
Like most yahoo answers, i think 75% just make it up as they go along.
2007-06-07 20:32:52 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 4⤊ 0⤋
Well traits certainly can't be added by natural selection. New traits develop randomly and spontaneously.
We've got to through out terms like "more complex" and "simplier" when comparaing organisms. It just reeks of homocentrism! An organism is as complex as it needs to be to fit into its biological niche. Less fit members or species will be selected against.
2007-06-08 00:25:54 · answer #2 · answered by michaelhobbsphd 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't know what is being taught in school and I'm not sure where you see this theme developing.
Natural selection is, of course, selection for or against traits and mutations. If a mutation or trait is harmful it will be selected against; if it is useful at that time and place and provides some survival or reproductive advantage it will be selected favorably.
2007-06-08 03:56:38 · answer #3 · answered by Joan H 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
(Deleterious; having adverse effect on living things)
Natural selection and Darwinism.
Not quite the subject or topic I expected to see at 8.30 Friday morning.
If you don't mind I'll come back later and add to this answer
2007-06-07 21:24:11 · answer #4 · answered by Greg 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋