Darwin and Wallace

• Who are the two main figures associated with the theory of evolution by natural selection?

  Charles Darwin and Wallace
• What was the main contribution of Charles Darwin to the theory of evolution?

  He developed the theory of evolution by natural selection.
• What did Darwin observe about variations in species during his studies?

  Most variations in members of the same species were inherited.
• What did Darwin conclude about survival and reproduction in relation to environmental suitability?

  Those suited to the environment were more likely to survive and pass on their characteristics.
• What did Darwin write to explain his observations on evolution?

  His theory of evolution by natural selection.
• Who was Alfred Russel Wallace?

  A naturalist who worked at the same time as Darwin.
• What was Wallace's contribution to the theory of natural selection?

  He also came up with the idea of natural selection and shared it with Darwin.
• How did Wallace's observations support the theory of evolution by natural selection?

  His observations provided evidence, such as the use of warning colors by some species to deter predators.
• How has the theory of evolution by natural selection influenced modern biology?

  It has led to the understanding that all life has changed through evolution from a common ancestor.
• What are some areas of biology affected by the theory of evolution by natural selection?

  • Antibiotics: Based on evolutionary relationships.
  • Antibiotic resistance: Importance of preventing spread and developing new antibiotics.
  • Conservation: Importance of genetic variation for adaptation and conservation projects.
• What is biodiversity?

  The variety of living organisms in an area.
• Why is it important to maintain biodiversity on Earth?

  Changes in the environment can require species to evolve quickly to survive.
• What is a seedbank?

  A store of seeds from different species of plants to conserve biodiversity.
• How do seedbanks help conserve biodiversity?

  They store seeds that can be used to grow new plants if species become extinct in the wild.
• How do seedbanks contribute to genetic variation conservation?

  They store seeds from plants with different characteristics and alleles.
• Why is it important to store traditional versions of crop species in seedbanks?

  They may have alleles for pest resistance that can be used in modern agriculture.
• What was revolutionary about Darwin and Wallace's ideas at the time?


  • They proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection.
  • Their ideas challenged existing beliefs about species and their origins.
• What is the significance of Darwin and Wallace in the context of biology?

  They laid the foundation for the modern understanding of evolution.
• Describe Wallace’s role in developing the theory of evolution by natural selection.


  Wallace independently conceived the idea of natural selection and collaborated with Darwin.