Which of the following concepts characterized Lamarck's hypothesis about evolution?

• A. Inheritance of acquired characteristics
• B. Natural selection as the primary mechanism of evolution
• C. Random genetic mutations drive evolutionary change
• D. Use and disuse of organs leads to evolutionary change

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that Lamarck's hypothesis about evolution is based on two main concepts: the inheritance of acquired characteristics and the use and disuse of organs.
2. The concept of 'inheritance of acquired characteristics' suggests that traits an organism develops during its lifetime (due to use or disuse) can be passed on to its offspring. For example, if an organism strengthens a particular organ through use, its offspring might inherit a stronger version of that organ.
3. The concept of 'use and disuse' implies that organs or structures that are frequently used become stronger or more developed, while those that are not used deteriorate or diminish over time.
4. Compare Lamarck's ideas to other evolutionary mechanisms, such as Darwin's theory of natural selection, which emphasizes survival and reproduction of the fittest, and the modern understanding of evolution, which includes random genetic mutations as a source of variation.
5. Recognize that Lamarck's hypothesis has been largely discredited in light of modern genetics, as acquired traits (e.g., muscle strength) are not encoded in an organism's DNA and therefore cannot be inherited by offspring.