Darwin y la evolución: Los tipos de selección natural

Types of Natural Selection

Stabilizing Selection

• Stabilizing selection, also known as negative selection, is the most common type of natural selection that favors average individuals over those with extreme traits.

• This form of selection aims to preserve the existing traits within a species, ensuring genetic stability.

Directional Selection

• Directional selection contrasts with stabilizing selection by favoring specific traits within a population.

• It drives the population in a particular direction based on advantageous characteristics that enhance survival or reproduction.

Disruptive Selection

• Disruptive selection supports individuals that deviate from the average, promoting outstanding characteristics even if they are oppositional.

• This type often leads to specialization and can result in the emergence of new species due to significant trait divergence.

Sexual Selection

• Sexual selection is sometimes debated as a form of natural selection; it involves competition among members for reproductive opportunities.