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In 1926, T H Muller experimented with fruit flies (Drosophila sp.) by exposing them to X-rays. He found that their offspring showed new phenotypes not observed in the wild population.
Explain how the results of these experiments can provide support for Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection. (4 marks)
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→ He demonstrated that genetic mutations produced by X-rays in the lab, could be passed on to offspring.
→ As the X-rays could induce genetic diversity in the fruit flies, Muller’s experiments proved that genetic variation could be increased.
→ These findings bridged the gap between laboratory experiments and field observations, making evolution a rigorous experimental science
→ Muller’s work provided experimental evidence that genetic mutations could drive evolutionary change, aligning with Darwin’s theory.
→ He demonstrated that genetic mutations produced by X-rays in the lab, could be passed on to offspring.
→ As the X-rays could induce genetic diversity in the fruit flies, Muller’s experiments proved that genetic variation could be increased.
→ These findings bridged the gap between laboratory experiments and field observations, making evolution a rigorous experimental science
→ Muller’s work provided experimental evidence that genetic mutations could drive evolutionary change, aligning with Darwin’s theory.