> I also see a problem with using Shannon theory to measure information. A
> duplication in the genome does not necessarily have the same information
> content as the original entity if what I read about place effects holds.
Yes; duplications and rearrangements can provide new information because of the changed configuration. They also provide novel raw material for evolution.
Environmental factors will have varying effects on evolution. On the one hand, strong selective pressure will promote rapid evolution or extinction. On the other hand, a relatively benign environment allows less-fit individuals to survive, providing opportunity for experimentation. A situation that somewhat combines the two arises in a stressful but low competition environment. General hardships allow mutants that are poor competitors a chance by suppressing competition. An example of this is the selection for high mutation rate mutants in bacteria given only something that they cannot digest as a food source. Very high mutation rates are generally bad if you're already successful, but helpful if you're in a bind.
Increased complexity may make evolution easier or more difficult.
Dr. David Campbell
Old Seashells
University of Alabama
Biodiversity & Systematics
Dept. Biological Sciences
Box 870345
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0345 USA
bivalve@mail.davidson.alumlink.com
That is Uncle Joe, taken in the masonic regalia of a Grand Exalted Periwinkle of the Mystic Order of Whelks-P.G. Wodehouse, Romance at Droitgate Spa
Received on Fri Jun 18 19:12:36 2004
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