Introduction to Fossils and Evolution
Fossils provide compelling evidence for the theory of evolution by illustrating the gradual changes in species over millions of years. They are preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms found in rock layers, showing how life forms have diversified and adapted through natural selection, as proposed by Charles Darwin.
Key Ways Fossils Support Evolution
The fossil record demonstrates evolution through stratigraphic succession, where simpler organisms appear in older layers and more complex ones in newer layers. Transitional fossils, like Archaeopteryx bridging reptiles and birds, reveal intermediate traits between ancestral and descendant species, refuting ideas of sudden creation.
Practical Example: Horse Evolution
A classic example is the evolution of horses, traced from the small, multi-toed Eohippus (about 55 million years ago) to modern single-toed Equus. Fossils show progressive changes in size, toe reduction, and tooth structure, adapting to grassland environments, providing a clear lineage of evolutionary progression.
Importance of Fossil Evidence
Fossils are crucial for understanding evolution as they offer direct, tangible proof of life's history, helping scientists reconstruct timelines and predict biodiversity. This evidence counters misconceptions like species appearing fully formed and informs fields like medicine and conservation by revealing adaptation patterns.