Evidence for Evolution ( W1 L2)

Species that are not great examples of evolution and thus used by creationists to prove that they were “made” and not evolved

A trait possessed by two or more species that is derived with or without modification from their common ancestor Similarity in structure and anatomical positions, but may function differently Indicates a common ancestor

Identical or similar gene code in DNA from separate species

traits that are similar in function but differ in basic structure (although they often look alike) similar because of convergent evolution, not common ancestors

The independent evolution of similar features in different lineages which leads to analogous structures due to organisms adapting in similar environments in similar ways

Rudimentary traits that are homologous to fully functional traits in related species Remnants of features that served a function in the organisms ancestor but does not necessarily serve a function in the organism

A species that exhibits traits common to ancestral and derived groups, especially when the groups are sharply differentiated ex. feathers, teeth, limbs

the scientific study of geographic distribution of species

Living species in an area are frequently closely related to fossils in that area providing evidence that the species evoled there

Organisms found in limited regions along with close relatives ex. that organism only lives in one geographic location in the world (i.g. channel islands)