Differences Between Natural Selection And Artificial Selection

Artificial selection in domesticated pigeons and natural selection in wild finches have similar aspects as well as many differences due to the type of selection that occurred. Evolution is the idea that all life on earth shares a common ancestor. Natural selection is the survival and reproduction of traits that are best suited for their environment (Schab, 2017). Artificial selection is intentionally selecting traits that are desirable for reproduction. The passing of traits from one generation to the next can be done by both natural and artificial selection. Artificial selection gave insight to how natural selection occurs, while natural selection gave rise to the theory of evolution, but they differ by the intent of selection which can be either done by the environment or by humans. By studying artificial selection, we can learn more about how natural selection occurs. Darwin studied artificial selection in pigeons and he was able to see patterns of inheritance throughout the breeds. Genes that are passed from parent to offspring are inherited characteristics and since pigeons are easy to breed, these characteristics can be easily seen. Scientists are able to see how genes work to produce different types of phenotypes
In the study of pigeons, scientists are able to look at the molecular mechanism by which characteristics are inherited (Genetic Science Learning Center, 2014). They can pick and choose which genes that they want to survive by breeding for that selection. Artificial selection is widely used in day to day lives. A lot of farm crops have been artificially selected, see Figure 2. It can also be widely seen in breeds of animals. For example, dogs which can be seen in Figure 3. After looking at the differences in how the artificial selection of pigeons and the natural selection of finches, the intent of reproduction is an important