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Embryonic studies of zebra fish and humans have shown common features exist - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2012 - Paper 1
Question 7
Embryonic studies of zebra fish and humans have shown common features exist. DNA studies have shown there are common genes for particular traits, such as body pigmen... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Embryonic studies of zebra fish and humans have shown common features exist - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2012 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain why zebra fish and humans have a gene coding for the same trait but have variation within the gene.
Answer
Zebra fish and humans share a common ancestor from which they both inherited similar genes connected to certain traits, such as body pigment. However, over time, different mutations have occurred in their respective lineages, leading to variation in the specific gene sequence. This means that although they may code for the same trait, the DNA structure can differ in order to adapt to each species' unique environment.
Step 2
Explain the difference between selective breeding and natural selection.
Answer
Selective breeding refers to the process where humans deliberately choose which organisms will breed based on desired traits, effectively controlling reproduction to enhance those traits in future generations. In contrast, natural selection is an evolutionary process where environmental factors act as selective agents, allowing only the organisms best suited to survive and reproduce in their environment to pass on their traits.
Step 3
What general name is given to an organism that contains genes from other species?
Answer
The general name for an organism that contains genes from other species is a genetically modified organism (GMO). This term encompasses any organism whose DNA has been altered through genetic engineering techniques.