Explain how the trunk of an elephant evolved using Darwin's theory of natural selection, and then Lamarck's theory.

According to Darwin's theory, genetic variation within the population means that some elephants are born with longer noses. Longer noses are better suited to the environment, so longer-nosed elephants are more likely to be able to get food. They are therefore more likely to survive and reproduce. The genes responsible for the longer nose are passed on to their offspring, and across many generations this developed into the modern elephant trunk. According to Lamarck's theory, early elephants stretched their noses to reach more food during their lifetime. The stretched nose is then passed on their offspring.

KP

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why is there both cyclic and non-cyclic photophosphorylation in photosynthesis? (A level)


Describe the different forms of active transport across a biological membrane


Explain how a simple reflex works, you answer should include a) one type of receptor and the stimulus that the receptor detects. b) how information is passed from the receptor to the effector


Use your knowledge of natural selection to suggest how the peacock's tail has evolved.