How did the discovery of DNA prove that Darwin’s theory of evolution was correct and how does it change the way we view evolution today and into the future? 

Darwin’s theory of evolution stated that all of life is related and has descended from a common ancestor. That is, complex creatures evolve from more simplistic ancestors, these adaptations occur depending on the environment that the animal lives in, or the tasks that they do to survive. Darwin saw that the animals that survived the best, were the animals that were best suited for their environment. For example, the pocket mice in the video ‘What Darwin Never Knew’ would develop different colored fur, depending on if they lived on rocks or sand. If they lived on the rocks, they would have darker fur for better camouflage, while if they lived on the sand, they would have lighter fur, this was a big way of survival for them, and boosted their overall “Fitness,” as their predators were less likely to spot and kill them. Another example is swimming iguanas. Iguanas used to be strictly land animals, but once Charles Darwin discovered them on the Galapagos islands swimming in the water, it made him realize that they had evolved from their ancestors. The Iguanas had to adapt to the water in to survive, this meant to tackle the harsh environment of the ocean in order to relocate and find food. So over time, they learned how to survive by using the environment surrounding them. 

Because of the modifications that took place during DNA replication, that enabled for longer life expectancy and safety, the discovery of DNA offers substantial proof that Darwin’s theory of evolution was accurate. All living things have DNA as their genetic makeup, and it serves as a method for the transfer of traits from one generation to the next. DNA can undergo mutations as well, which can result in genetic variation that natural selection can influence. DNA analysis has made it possible for researchers to record the evolutionary development of many species and to find evidence for common ancestry and descent. All living things have a similar genetic code, according to DNA research, and the variations between species are the result of gradual genetic modifications. Another example incudes the Finches that Darwin discovered on the Galapagos Islands. He thought they were separate species, then soon realized that they were all the same creature, simply different variations depending on the island they lived on. The birds have inherited variation in the bill shape. For example, some individuals have wide, deep bills and others have thinner bills. The large-billed birds feed more efficiently on large, hard seeds, whereas smaller-billed birds feed more efficiently on small, soft seeds. 

Over time the discovery of DNA has also facilitated the creation of established technologies, including genetic engineering and gene editing, that may one day alter the direction of evolution. With the use of these technologies, it is possible to alter DNA and produce new genetic features that may be utilized to improve human health or solve environmental problems. 

In conclusion, the founding of DNA has strengthened the case for the accuracy of Darwin’s theory of evolution and deepened the understanding of the processes behind genetic diversity and inheritance. While humans continue to investigate the potential of genetic technology, it has also created new opportunities for the future of evolution in living beings. 

Sources:

Theory of Evolution (nationalgeographic.org) 

Darwin, evolution, & natural selection (article) | Khan Academy 

 Darwin’s Theory of Evolution Proved by Pigeon DNA (ibtimes.co.uk)