Which of the following is NOT considered evidence supporting biological evolution?

• A. Homologous structures shared among different species (e.g., similar limb bone patterns in mammals)
• B. Fossil records showing transitional forms between ancestral and descendant groups
• C. The idea that individual organisms evolve new traits because they need them during their lifetime
• D. Genetic similarities in DNA sequences among related organisms

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of biological evolution, which is the change in the genetic composition of populations over generations, supported by various types of evidence.
2. Step 2: Review the types of evidence that support evolution: homologous structures indicate common ancestry; fossil records show transitional forms; genetic similarities reveal relatedness among species.
3. Step 3: Recognize that the idea that individual organisms evolve new traits because they need them during their lifetime is a misconception known as Lamarckism, which is not supported by modern evolutionary biology.
4. Step 4: Compare each option to the accepted evidence for evolution and identify which one does not align with scientific understanding.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the statement about individuals evolving traits due to need during their lifetime is NOT considered valid evidence supporting biological evolution.