There are many modern examples of evolution in action. Here are a few:
- Example: The Peppered Moth
Process: Industrial pollution darkened tree trunks in England, making light-colored peppered moths more visible to predators. As a result, the frequency of the dark-colored variant increased in polluted areas. This is an example of natural selection, where the better-adapted individuals have a higher chance of survival and reproduction.
- Example: Antibiotic Resistance
Process: Bacteria can evolve resistance to antibiotics, making the drugs less effective. This is a result of mutations in bacterial genes, which can be selected for when the bacteria are exposed to antibiotics.
- Example: Darwin's Finches
Process: Darwin's finches on the Galapagos Islands have evolved different beak shapes to adapt to different food sources. This is an example of adaptive radiation, where a single species gives rise to multiple species that are adapted to different environments.
- Example: Human Height
Process: Humans have been getting taller over time, a trend that is thought to be driven by a combination of better nutrition and improved healthcare. This is an example of secular trend evolution, where a trait changes gradually over time.