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From: mrh@cybvax0.UUCP (Mike Huybensz)
Newsgroups: net.origins
Subject: Re: Where the Deer and the Cantaloupe Play
Message-ID: <514@cybvax0.UUCP>
Date: Mon, 29-Apr-85 14:49:43 EDT
Article-I.D.: cybvax0.514
Posted: Mon Apr 29 14:49:43 1985
Date-Received: Wed, 1-May-85 05:47:03 EDT
References: <999@uwmacc.UUCP>
Reply-To: mrh@cybvax0.UUCP (Mike Huybensz)
Distribution: net
Organization: Cybermation, Inc., Cambridge, MA
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> [Paul DuBois to Stanley Friesen]
> You give an example of a mutation which leads to loss of a
> morphological character.  If evolution proceeds on the basis of loss
> of function, I would not wish to place much confidence in it.  Where
> are the new and useful characteristics?

Numerous mutations have been found in Drosophila which add morphological
characters.  There are genes that can cause formation of a second pair
of wings out of what would have been calypters, genes that can cause
formation of legs out of antennae, and genes that can cause formation
of extra bristles.

Conceiveably, these could be useful characteristics in some environment.
Natural selection could then modify the new structures to more specialized
forms.

> Also, it would appear that a mutation such as the example given is not
> really a serious entry for consideration.  If it was really more
> greatly viable, natural selection would result in it being found in
> wild form, right?  (Otherwise natural selection doesn't work.)  Is it
> found?  I suppose it might be, but since you talk about "standard lab
> conditions", I am led to think otherwise...

It's been well known for about a century that flightless forms are most
frequently found on islands.  Birds and insects come readily to mind.
-- 

Mike Huybensz		...decvax!genrad!mit-eddie!cybvax0!mrh