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Evolution

Question
CBSEENBI12001802

Explain the salient features of Hugo de Vries theory of mutation. How is Darwin theory of natural selection different from it? Explain.

Solution
Hugo de Vries based on his work on evening primrose suggested that variations occurred due to mutations. Hugo de Vries gave the name saltation (single step large mutation) to the mutations that brought about speciation. Darwin aboard the H.M.S Beagle observed that all existing living forms share similarities among themselves and also with other life forms that existed millions of years ago of which many are extinct. The evolution of life forms has been gradual and those life forms better fit in environments that leave more progeny. This is called natural selection and is a mechanism of evolution. Mutations are random and directionless while the variations that Darwin talked about were small and directional.