Which of the following is NOT considered evidence for evolution?

• A. Similarities in DNA sequences among different species
• B. The idea that individual organisms evolve because they need to adapt during their lifetime
• C. The presence of transitional fossils in the fossil record
• D. Homologous structures (similar anatomy due to shared ancestry)

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand what constitutes evidence for evolution. Evidence for evolution includes observable data that supports the idea that species change over time through common ancestry and natural selection.
2. Step 2: Analyze each option to determine if it is a valid form of evidence. Similarities in DNA sequences among different species indicate genetic relationships and common ancestry, which is strong evidence for evolution.
3. Step 3: Consider transitional fossils. These fossils show intermediate forms between ancestral species and their descendants, providing physical evidence of evolutionary change over time.
4. Step 4: Evaluate homologous structures. These are anatomical features shared by different species due to common ancestry, demonstrating evolutionary relationships.
5. Step 5: Identify the incorrect option. The idea that individual organisms evolve because they need to adapt during their lifetime is a misconception (Lamarckian inheritance) and is not supported by modern evolutionary biology as evidence for evolution.