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If you change "species" to "population" in the parent comment everything still works.



Yes, but is it evolution or simply adaptation within an existing framework?


What would be the difference, in your view?


Evolution would be a change in the genetic foundation of that whole framework that makes an individual thrive in the environment. A change so big that it would ultimately lead to speciation.

Adaptation is done using existing mechanisms, with no new genetic changes besides the usual background noise. It never leads to speciation.


How do you draw the line? Do any biologists use these terms?




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