Selection and Adaptation Vocabulary

Adaptation A mutation, genetic change, or a change in habits (behavior) that helps an organism, such as a plant or animal, survive in its environment

Artificial Selection Selective breeding of plants and animals to produce desirable traits

Gradualism The theory that new species evolve from existing species through small changes

Mutation When a DNA gene is damaged or changed in such a way that it changes the genetic message carried by that gene.

Natural Selection The process by which inherited traits increase an organism's chances of survival and reproduction

Population changes When a population increases or decreases

Selective breeding The breeding of organisms with desirable trait in an attempt to produce offspring with similar desirable characteristics or with improved traits.

Traits Trait is a characteristic you inherit or a distinguishing characteristic or feature.

Variation A different form or version of something