Why do DNA sequences have more evolutionary information content than protein sequences?

Compare and contrast phyletic gradualism and punctuated equilibrium.

Explain the features that are needed in order for a particular gene to be useful for phylogenetic analysis.

Contrast internal gene duplication with complete gene duplication. How does each contribute to the evolution of new genes? 10 pts.

What is a mosaic protein? How do mosaic proteins evolve?

Why do different regions of genes differ in observed substitution rate? Why do different protein coding genes have different substitution rates?

What features should a gene possess to be useful for a particular evolutionary study? Why are rRNA genes particuarly useful for evolutionary studies?

How does duplication produce more complex genes and gene families?

What is the relationship between domains and exons? How is this relationship important to the evolution of new genes?

What are the probable outcomes of two species competing for a limiting resource?

How does character displacement affect competing species?

Describe the process of developmental canalization. How does stabilizing selection affect canalization?

Diagram the general pattern of rRNA gene structure. Why are these genes so valuable for reconstructing evolutionary history?

Constrast cladistics and phenetics.

What are the advantages of using organelle DNA in evolutionary studies?

What is an evolutionary trend?  Are evolutionary trends real, or just a human perception?  Defend your answer.

Contrast adaptive radiation with progressive occupation and give an example of each.

Does evolution and adaptation lead to the long-term survival of a species? Defend your answer.