Question

Fill in the blank with the correct word or words. A change in the hereditary features of a species over a long period is ___________.

Short answer

The blank is filled with "evolution."

Step-by-step solution

Identify the key terms.

In the question, the key terms are "change in hereditary features" and "species over a long period." These terms are essential in understanding what the sentence is asking about.

Recall relevant concepts.

The concept of change in hereditary traits or features within a species over time is a fundamental concept in biology. This involves understanding how species evolve and adapt over time.

Connect the concept to vocabulary.

The process of a species undergoing changes in its hereditary characteristics over a long period is scientifically known as evolution. It describes how species change and adapt over generations.

Fill in the blank.

Using the identified concept, fill in the blank with the correct term. The term that best fits is "evolution."

Key concepts

Change in Hereditary Features

Change in hereditary features refers to alterations in the genetic makeup of organisms that are passed from one generation to the next. These changes are a natural part of how life evolves over time. DNA, the blueprint of life, contains all the information required to build and maintain an organism. When organisms reproduce, they pass on copies of this DNA to their offspring, transferring hereditary characteristics.

These changes might happen through mutations, which are random and natural alterations in the DNA sequence. Although most mutations do not have significant effects, some can lead to beneficial traits that help an organism survive and reproduce. Over successive generations, these advantageous traits become more common in a population.

• Mutations: Random changes in DNA.
• Inheritance: Transmission of genetic traits from parents to offspring.
• Accumulation over generations: Gradual change in the genetic composition of populations.

Species Adaptation

Species adaptation is how a species evolves to better fit its environment. Over time, species develop traits that enhance their survival and reproduction in their specific habitats. This process occurs through natural selection, where individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and pass these traits on to their offspring.

Imagine a specific environment with limited resources. The organisms best suited to efficiently use these resources are more likely to thrive. Their successful offspring inherit these beneficial traits and contribute to the gradual adaptation of the species to their changing surroundings.

• Natural Selection: The mechanism driving adaptation.
• Environmental Pressure: Resources and challenges that influence survival.
• Evolved Traits: Features enhancing survival and reproduction.

Biological Evolution

Biological evolution is the broad process through which species undergo genetic changes over long periods. This ongoing process results in the diversity of life we observe on Earth. Driven by mechanisms such as mutation, natural selection, gene flow, and genetic drift, biological evolution helps explain the complexity and variety seen in the natural world.

Different environmental conditions demand different adaptations, causing species to diverge from one another over time. These changes can be slow and gradual, known as gradualism, or can occur in rapid bursts, as seen in punctuated equilibrium.

• Mutations introduce genetic variation.
• Natural Selection favors beneficial traits.
• Genetic Drift causes random changes in populations.
• Speciation: Formation of new and distinct species.