Evolution Vocabulary

Learn evolution vocabulary! Match terms like natural selection and mutation to their definitions.

Matching. Drag the dot on the vocabulary word to the definition. homologous structures same structures, different function analogous structure similar function, different structures vestigial organs organs that no longer serves a function, appendix embryonic development looking at embryos and comparing their development common ancestor the most recent ancestral form or species from which two different species evolved Matching. Drag the dot on the vocabulary word to the definition. Evolution Change over time mutation In genetics, a relatively permanent change in the genes or a plant or animal that causes physical characteristics that are different from what is normal. artificial selection Breeding organisms with specific traits in order to produce offspring with identical traits. natural selection A process in which individuals that have certain inherited traits tend to survive and reproduce at higher rates than other individuals because of those traits. transitional fossils Fossils that provide patterns of evolutionary change from the early ancestors to modern life forms. Speciation the formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution. Matching. evolutionary tree A branching diagram that reflects a hypothesis about evolutionary relationships among groups of organisms. Trait A characteristic that an organism can pass on to its offspring through its genes. Charles Darwin Often called the "Father" of Evolution genetic variation having many differences within a species. The greater the genetic diversity within a species, the greater that species' chances of long-term survival. competition the struggle between organisms to survive in a habitat with limited resources