Evolution of new species occurs by mutation and natural selection.
State what is meant by a genetic mutation.
Describe how natural selection can lead to a population of organisms becoming better adapted to their environment over time.
Which two scientists are famous for independently developing the theory of evolution by natural selection at around the same time?
Tick (✓\checkmark✓) one box.
- Gregor Mendel and Jean-Baptiste Lamarck
- Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace
- Carl Linnaeus and Charles Darwin
- Alfred Russel Wallace and Gregor Mendel
The harmless, stingless hoverfly (Episyrphus balteatus) possesses bright yellow and black stripes across its abdomen. This pattern is extremely similar to the warning coloration of the common wasp (Vespula vulgaris), which possesses a painful venomous sting.
Figure 1 shows a hoverfly and a common wasp.
The wasp uses its sting to defend itself against predators. The hoverfly is harmless and does not have a sting. Both hoverflies and wasps inhabit the same meadows and woodland environments.
Explain how having these bright yellow and black stripes helps the harmless hoverfly survive.