Final answer:
The evidence that does not support the theory of natural selection is E) Inheritance of acquired traits. This concept has been disproven and the other options, such as the fossil record and genetics, do support natural selection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Evidence Supporting the Theory of Natural Selection
The evidence that does not support the theory of natural selection is E) Inheritance of acquired traits. This concept, often associated with Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, suggests that traits acquired during an organism's life can be passed on to its offspring. This concept has been disproven and does not align with the modern understanding of genetics and evolution. The other options provided, such as A) Fossil record, B) Geographic distribution, C) Homologous structures, and D) Genetic information, all offer compelling evidence in favor of natural selection. For example, the fossil record reveals a historical sequence of life forms transitioning from simple to more complex, supporting gradual change over time. Geographic distribution explains how species evolve differently in diverse environments, while homologous structures indicate a shared ancestry among different species. Genetic information details how variations in DNA can result in different traits that may provide a survival advantage.
An excellent example of evidence for evolution is the fossil of Archaeopteryx, which combines features of reptiles and birds, suggesting common ancestry. Moreover, the modern synthesis integrates the principles of genetics with the mechanisms of natural selection, explaining how evolution operates on a genetic level.