A new study reveals that evolution, according to Darwinian theory, could occur up to four times faster, based on analyses of genetic variation.
Recently, researchers at the Australian National University discovered breakthroughs in the evolutionary process of several species. The findings suggest that the greater the genetic differences, the faster evolution can occur, as certain traits diminish while stronger traits emerge.
Darwin’s theory of evolution remains a controversial hypothesis.
Dr. Timothée Bonnet, an evolutionary ecologist and representative of the research team, stated: “This method provides us with a way to measure the potential speed of modern evolution in response to natural selection across all traits in a population.”
“This is something we were unable to achieve with previous methods, so being able to observe so many potential changes was a surprise for the research team,” he added.
Among the wildlife species studied were the superb fairy-wren (Malurus cyaneus) in Australia, the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) in Tanzania, the song sparrow (Melospiza melodia) in Canada, and the red deer (Cervus elaphus) in Scotland.
The average duration of each field study was about 30 years, with careful documentation of birth, death, mating, and offspring details. This also marks the first time that the speed of evolution has been assessed on such a large scale.
Subsequently, the research team spent an additional three years quantifying the level of species change induced by genetics and natural selection. They discovered that evolution can occur in just a few years, contrary to Charles Darwin’s assertion that the process of evolution takes place very slowly.
Evolution in some species is accelerating rapidly to adapt to climate change. (Illustrative image).
An easily observable example of rapid evolution can be seen in moths. In the past, the Industrial Revolution in England caused pollution that left black soot on trees and buildings. Black moths then adapted their coloration to blend in with this environment, making it difficult for birds to spot them.
“Because the color of the moth determines its survival probability and due to genetic differences, populations in England quickly became dominated by black moths,” Dr. Bonnet noted.
Additionally, researchers suggest that as the world and wildlife ecosystems are “spinning” under the continuous impacts of climate change, understanding the adaptation speed of various species will be crucial in modeling which species may survive and which may not.
“This study shows us that we cannot view evolution as a process that allows species to persist over long periods in response to environmental changes,” Dr. Bonnet explained. “Rather, evolution should be seen as a significant driving force, demonstrating the adaptive capacity of populations to current environmental changes.”