Question

Darwin’s theory of natural selection was based on:

• A. Inheritance of acquired characteristics
• B. Struggle for existence and survival of the fittest
• C. Use and disuse of organs
• D. Appearance of sudden variations

Answer 1

The correct option is B Struggle for existence and survival of the fittest

According to Darwinism, natural selection involves the following factors :
- Prodigality of production: Organisms reproduce at a very high rate
- Variation: Unfavourable variations are discarded and only favourable variations are inherited and accumulated through generations.
- Struggle for existence: Large number of offsprings in a habitat with constant food and space has to face competi­tion.
- Survival of the fittest: Individuals having several favourable variations along with the changed habitat.
- Speciation - New distinct species can be formed due to accumulation of many small genetic changes in a population over a long period of time.
Organisms with the above mentioned factors will have a better chance of survival.