Darwinian evolution, also known as the theory of evolution by natural selection, is a scientific theory that explains how species change over time through the process of natural selection. The theory was first proposed by Charles Darwin in his book “On the Origin of Species” in 1859.
Natural selection is the process by which organisms with certain advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce than those without these traits. Over time, these advantageous traits become more common in the population, while traits that are not advantageous become less common or disappear altogether. This process leads to the gradual evolution of species over time.
The basic principles of natural selection include variation, heredity, and differential reproductive success. Variation refers to the fact that individuals within a population have different traits that may be advantageous or disadvantageous. Heredity refers to the fact that traits are passed down from parents to offspring. Differential reproductive success refers to the fact that individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their advantageous traits to their offspring.
For example, in a population of insects, some individuals may have wings that allow them to fly and escape predators, while others do not. Over time, individuals with wings are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their advantageous trait of wings to their offspring. As a result, the proportion of individuals with wings in the population increases over time.
Darwinian evolution and natural selection provide a framework for understanding how species have evolved over time and how new species can arise. It is supported by a large body of scientific evidence from fields such as genetics, molecular biology, biogeography, and comparative anatomy.