Chapter 6: Natural Selection and Adaptation: The Engine of Evolution
Chapter 6: Natural Selection and Adaptation: The Engine of Evolution One of the most recognized and important concepts in evolutionary theory is natural selection. This theory, proposed by Charles Darwin in the 19th century, suggests that organisms with traits best suited to their environmental conditions will survive and reproduce, passing their genetic information to the next generation. However, natural selection alone does not drive evolutionary change. The concept of adaptation is also a crucial part of the evolutionary process. Adaptation refers to the biological features that allow organisms to adjust to environmental conditions. Natural selection shapes evolutionary change by selecting for adaptations. In this chapter, we will explore how natural selection works, how organisms adapt to their environments, and the role these processes play in evolution. What is Natural Selection? Natural selection is a process in which individuals with traits that are better suited t...