Question

What is the saltation?

• A. Gradual large mutation
• B. Single step small mutation
• C. Gradual small mutation
• D. Single step large mutation

Answer 1

The correct option is D Single step large mutation

Hugo de Vries, based on his work on evening primrose, brought forth the idea of mutations – large differences arising suddenly in a population. He believed that it is mutation which causes evolution and not the minor variations (heritable) that Darwin talked about. Mutations are random and directionless while Darwinian variations are small and directional. Evolution for Darwin was gradual while de Vries believed mutation caused speciation and hence called it saltation (single step large mutation).