Concept explainers
To explain: The examples related to pre-existing traits being used by organisms for a new function and discuss whether exaptation or preadaptation would be an appropriate label.
Introduction: Exaptation and preadaptation are the two terms with a slightly different meaning. An exaptation was coined by Stephen Jay Gould and Elisabeth, which means that the pre-existing traits used for a new function, whereas, “preadaptation” term given by George Gaylord which refers to a structure that has undergone changes along with natural selection.
To determine: The examples of criticism regarding exaptation and preadaptation.
Introduction: An exaptation is a pre-existing trait used for a new, seemingly adaptive function. The term was coined by Stephen Jay Gould and Elisabeth Vrba, to improve the clarity of language when discussing this from “preadaptation”, as used by George Gaylord Simpson, referring to a structure that undergoes a change of function followed by tinkering by natural selection. Both terms are used by a biologist, with subtly different meanings.
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