Microevolution and Macroevolution

Introduction

The concepts covered in Historical Development and Mechanisms of Evolution and Natural Selection are carried forward to higher levels of understanding in this section. You may want to review that section before moving forward. Although this section is not complicated, it may save you time if you refresh your memory.

The selection strategies caused by natural forces create interesting patterns in the genetics of the affected populations. These patterns are easily described and understood, trust me. An extension of these patterns also describes how new species are formed. As simple concepts begin to build on themselves, it is important to remember that it all fits together in a nice package. It does make sense, but, as “they” say, you may not know it's a horse if you only have access to the tail.

Excerpted from The Complete Idiot's Guide to Biology © 2004 by Glen E. Moulton, Ed.D.. All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form. Used by arrangement with Alpha Books, a member of Penguin Group (USA) Inc.

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