RE: Evolution: A few questions

Hello Dave,

Just out of curiosity, how would one account for the evolution of the
metamorphosis process of animals such as frogs and butterflies? It has
always seemed improbable to me that such an elaborate process could have
evolved due to natural selection for random genetic mistakes. However, I
readily admit that this is a topic in which I am utterly ignorant! Perhaps
you would be willing to share your insights?

In Christ,
Mike

-----Original Message-----
From: asa-owner@lists.calvin.edu [mailto:asa-owner@lists.calvin.edu] On
Behalf Of bivalve
Sent: Tuesday, June 22, 2004 6:59 PM
To: ASA
Subject: Re: Evolution: A few questions

> > In contrast even to a benign remodel, let me note what happens during
the
> > metamorphosis of a frog.

An additional remodeling that occurs in the development of most tadpoles is
the change from a vegetarian to a carnivore gut (relatively long to
relatively short, etc.). Some species are able to make the change early, if
algae is in short supply. In particular, certain species that breed in
temporary ponds have tadpoles that are able to turn into cannibals if the
pond is starting to dry up. This gives them an abundant supply of food so
that they can grow fast and complete the tadpole stage before the pond dries
up.

    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 Tue Jun 22 20:28:56 2004