Evolution Quiz

Today's snakes are believed to have evolved from lizards. We have found fossils that show evidence of this evolution. One of these is represented by the fossil shown in rock layer "B". What is the name given to this fossil?

A transitional form

What do we call structures found in different species that are similar in function but that evolved independently?

Analogous

7. What is the name for the study of the distribution of living organisms?

Biogeography

We do not have a full fossil record - sometimes there are gaps and it is unclear exactly how certain species evolved. Which of these is NOT a reason for gaps in the fossil record

Fossils over a million years old decay and break down

What do we call structures found in different species that have shared ancestry?

Homologous

What is evolution?

The change in the heritable characteristics of a population over time

What do we call structures that no longer have a function in an organism?

Vestigial

Studying the developmental patterns of ________ can reveal hidden homologies not seen in fully developed organisms." What is the missing word in this sentence? Give your answer as a single word with no period at the end.

embryos

Which name is given to the preserved remains or traces of dead organisms? Give your answer as a single word with no period at the end.

fossils

We can study the genetic material of different species to compare how closely related they are. Which name is given for the entire genetic material of an organism? Given your answer as a single word with no period at the end.

genome

The development of bacteria that have antibiotic ________________ has provided scientists with direct observation of evolution." What is the missing word in this sentence? Give your answer as a single word with no period at the end.

resistance

Over time, snakes evolved to become limbless. Some snakes, such as Pythons, still have spurs which are the remains of ancestral hind legs. These are not used for walking. What can the spurs be described as? Give your answer as a single word with no period at the end.

vestigial