Question

Which of the following statements was not explained by Darwin's theory?

• A. The significance of minute variations
• B. Presence of vestigeal or useless organs
• C. The presence of over specialized organs
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

All of the above

Darwin's theory was based on variations, struggle, natural selection and differential reproduction. Thus Darwin maintained that living organisms show variations and the variant best suited is selected by nature to reproduce. Thus vestigial or over specialized organs are not expected. Vestigial organs might arise by progressive disuse and over specialized organs by progressive use. Both of these are not a Darwinian view. Darwin's view is that if something is useful it will be selected to be passed on to the next generation and that's it. Not that, that organ will become overspecialized or vestigial, if not required. In the same way, minute variations, which do not confer any major advantage to the organism in a particular environment are useless and will not affect evolutionary process.