Remaining standards

By Clell Carnes
1.A.1: A, B, C, D, E, F
1.A.2: B
1.A.3: A & B
1.C.1: A
4.C.2: A
Darwins theory of evolution is based on competition for resources. The most fit
organism will survive, and win the niche. The success of the organisms competing is
measured by reproductive success. The reason for success is genetic variations. The
variations that occur in offspring cause phenotypes or adaptations than can give a
certain organism an advantage. The organism may not always be best fit because
ecosystems tend to fluctuate and change over time. A population evolves over time and
fill niches, but a smaller population is less able to adapt to changes. There is less
chance for a new phenotype which means that small populations are affected more by
drastic changes in the environment. Small populations tend to be affected by genetic
drift more often since there is less chance for a random DNA mutation and new
phenotype.
The time it takes for a new species to evolve can vary. It can take less time if there is a
lot of adaptive radiation occurring because of new habitats. It happens quicker in a
bigger population because of more genetic variations. It happens slower in smaller
populations, and sometimes even so slow that the small population wont evolve in time
and will die off. The most fit population will evolve and fill the niche that has been
vacated.