Evolution Vocabulary

Any trait that helps an organism survive and reproduce under a given set of environmental conditions

The process by which species have changed over time

The disappearance of all members of a species from Earth

Collection of preserved remains of ancient organisms that is used to represent Earth’s history; often this collection shows changes in the traits of living things.

Normal differences in DNA found among offspring

Earth’s history as revealed by layers of rock

Any alteration in the sequence of DNA

The process by which the organisms that are best adapted to a specific environment survive and produce more offspring than those that are not as well adapted to a particular environment

A portion of Evolutionary Theory that states organisms produce more offspring than can survive within the environment

An explanation, supported by many observations and/or experiments. This explanation accurately explains related occurrences.