Explain how the trunk of an elephant evolved using Darwin's theory of natural selection, and then Lamarck's theory.

According to Darwin's theory, genetic variation within the population means that some elephants are born with longer noses. Longer noses are better suited to the environment, so longer-nosed elephants are more likely to be able to get food. They are therefore more likely to survive and reproduce. The genes responsible for the longer nose are passed on to their offspring, and across many generations this developed into the modern elephant trunk. According to Lamarck's theory, early elephants stretched their noses to reach more food during their lifetime. The stretched nose is then passed on their offspring.

KP
Answered by Katie P. Biology tutor

29015 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do enzymes work and what would be the effects of an increasing temperature on an enzyme controlled reaction?


Explain why diffusion is an important process in plants and animals.


A large amount of sewage enters a river and many of the fish die. Sewage contains bacteria and organic material. Explain why the fish died.


How does antibiotic resistance relate to evolution?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning