Questions: Relate and describe select evidences of natural selection and descent with modification

Natural selection and descent with modification are fundamental concepts in evolutionary biology. Here are some select evidences that illustrate these principles:

1. Fossil Record: The fossil record provides chronological evidence of how species have changed over time. Transitional fossils, such as those of Archaeopteryx, show characteristics of both dinosaurs and birds, supporting the idea of descent with modification. These fossils demonstrate gradual changes in form and function, indicating how species have evolved from common ancestors.

2. Comparative Anatomy: The study of homologous structures, which are anatomical features that are similar in different species due to shared ancestry, supports the concept of descent with modification. For example, the forelimbs of humans, whales, bats, and cats have different functions but share a common skeletal structure, suggesting they evolved from a common ancestor.

3. Molecular Biology: DNA and protein sequence comparisons reveal genetic similarities among different species. The more closely related two species are, the more similar their DNA sequences tend to be. This genetic evidence supports the idea of common descent and shows how natural selection can lead to genetic changes over time.

In summary, the fossil record, comparative anatomy, and molecular biology provide compelling evidence for natural selection and descent with modification, illustrating how species have evolved and diversified from common ancestors over time.