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A-Level Biology OCR A

Darwin Theory Wallace Evolution Natural Finches Islands Similar

Darwin and Wallace formulated the theory of evolution by natural selection by observing adaptive variations (like Galapagos finch beaks) and proposing that individuals with more favorable traits survive and reproduce more.

Darwin e Wallace hanno formulato la teoria dell'evoluzione per selezione naturale osservando le variazioni adattative (come il becco dei fringuelli delle Galapagos) e proponendo che gli individui con tratti più favorevoli sopravvivano e si riproducano maggiormente.

Front Summarise how Darwin and Wallace formulated the theory of evolution by natural selection.
Back Darwin & Wallace:
  • Darwin carried out observations on finches in Galapagos islands - different islands had different finches which were similar and therefore closely related but beaks and claws were different 
  • Darwin realised that the beak structure was linked to the food available on each island
  • Conclusion was that a bird born with more suitable beak will survive longer, have more offspring and pass on the characteristic until all have it
  • Wallace was indepednently working on his theory of evolution, ideas so similar they did joint presentation
  • Darwin published On the Origin of Species, detailing the theory of evolution by natural selection - very controversial and influential

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