What is evolution?

Mutations in individuals leads to variation in a population of a species. Some individuals have characteristics that makes them better suited to their environments, so they are more likely to survive and reproduce to pass on their genes that increased their survival to the next generation.

This is called 'natural selection' or 'survival of the fittest'. Think about why giraffes' necks are so long - a longer neck means they can reach up tall trees to get more food, increasing their survival chances. Changes in an entire species' characteristics can take many generations and hundreds and thousands of years. In giraffes, shorter-necked individuals were more likely to die, so the proportion of longer-necked individuals increased until all giraffes have really long necks.

AL
Answered by Ann L. Biology tutor

3855 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the function of muscle cells found in the stomach wall


Describe how different environmental factors affect the direction of root and shoot growth in plants. You should refer to the role of plant hormones.


Use your knowledge of natural selection to suggest how the peacock's tail has evolved.


Describe four characteristics of an efficient respiratory surface


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences