1. Evolution Primers Isn't Evolution Just a Theory??? How Does Evolution Really Work? How Do We Know Evolution Happens?

2. Limits on Adaptation through Natural Selection A population’s ability to adapt to new environmental conditions through natural selection is limited by its gene pool and how fast it can reproduce.A population’s ability to adapt to new environmental conditions through natural selection is limited by its gene pool and how fast it can reproduce. –Humans have a relatively slow generation time (decades) and output (# of young) versus some other species.

3. Common Myths about Evolution through Natural Selection Evolution through natural selection is about the most descendants.Evolution through natural selection is about the most descendants. Misconception 1: survival of the fittest does not mean survival of the strongest – it is referring to REPRODUCTIVE SUCCESSMisconception 1: survival of the fittest does not mean survival of the strongest – it is referring to REPRODUCTIVE SUCCESS Misconception 2: Evolution involves some grand plan of nature in which species become progressively more perfectMisconception 2: Evolution involves some grand plan of nature in which species become progressively more perfect –Organisms do not develop certain traits because they need them. –There is no such thing as genetic perfection.

5. Evolution and Adaptation Co-Evolution Co-Evolution – Populations of two different species interacting over a long period of time – Changes in the gene pool of one species can lead to changes the gene pool of another species Predator-Prey Relationships (salamander and snake – the coffee pot incident) Predator-Prey Relationships (salamander and snake – the coffee pot incident) Plant defense mechanisms (mistletoe plant) Plant defense mechanisms (mistletoe plant)

6. Ecological Niches and Adaptation Ecological niche Ecological niche – Total way of life or functional role of a species in an ecosystem. Habitat Habitat – Physical location of a species Occupation Address

7. Ecological Niches and Adaptation Fundamental niche Fundamental niche – Full potential range of the physical, chemical, and biological factors a species can use if there were no direct competition from other species. Realized niche Realized niche – Part of a species fundamental niche that are actually used.

8. Broad and Narrow Niches Generalist species Generalist species – Species with a broad ecological niche. Live in many different places. Live in many different places. Eat a variety of food. Eat a variety of food. Tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions. Tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions. (flies, mice, deer, catfish, humans) Specialist species Specialist species – Species with a narrow ecological niche. Live only in one type of habitat Live only in one type of habitat Use only a few types of food Use only a few types of food Tolerate only a narrow range of climatic and other environmental conditions. Tolerate only a narrow range of climatic and other environmental conditions. (tiger salamander, red-cockaded woodpecker, spotted owls, pandas)