Final answer:
Darwin's theory of natural selection includes the tenets of variation, overproduction, survival of the fittest, and descent with modification. These principles describe how advantageous traits become prevalent in a population over time, leading to species evolution and diversity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Four Tenets of Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection
The four tenets of Darwin's theory of natural selection are:
- Variation: Within populations, there is a natural variation among individuals.
- Overproduction: Organisms tend to produce more offspring than the environment can support.
- Survival of the Fittest: Individuals with characteristics best suited to their environment have a higher chance of surviving and reproducing.
- Descent with Modification: Over time, the traits that enhance survival may lead to a gradual change in the population and potentially give rise to new species.
These tenets interconnect to enable species change over time. Variations present genetic diversity, and with overproduction comes competition for resources. The 'struggle for existence' favors those with advantageous traits—measured as 'fitness'—ultimately leading to a greater representation of these traits in successive generations. As environments change, these characteristics may evolve, resulting in evolution by natural selection, which underpins the diversity of life forms.