Three Examples of Evolution
This page delves into three classic examples of evolution observed in nature, providing natural selection examples that are often used in KS3 and GCSE Biology curricula.
Darwin's Finches
Darwin's observations of finches in the Galápagos Islands played a crucial role in developing his theory of evolution. He noted 13 different species with variations in their beaks, intelligence, colors, and diets, all adapted to their specific habitats.
Example: Finches developed different beak shapes to suit their diets:
- Sharp beaks for piercing insects or chopping vegetation
- Large, strong beaks for cracking seeds and nuts
- Small beaks for handling smaller seeds
Peppered Moths
The peppered moth case study is a classic example of natural selection taught in schools. Before the Industrial Revolution, these moths were pale to blend with light-colored tree bark. However, as pollution darkened the environment, a mutation allowing for darker coloration became advantageous.
Highlight: Over time, the population shifted from predominantly light-colored moths to dark-colored moths, demonstrating evolution in response to environmental changes.
Flightless Birds
The evolution of flightless birds like penguins, emus, and ostriches provides an interesting example of how species can lose traits that are no longer necessary for survival.
Example: Ostriches and emus evolved large bodies and feet for running on land, while penguins adapted their wings into flippers for swimming, both losing the ability to fly in the process.
This page effectively illustrates how natural selection leads to evolution, providing concrete examples that help students understand these complex concepts.
