[Recognition of adaptiveness and reconstruction of the adaptation process].
The problem of recognition of phyletic adaptations as an important area of evolutionary interpretation and synthesis of data on morphology and ecology is discussed. The disadvantages and limitations of the traditional approach, the so-called "adaptationist program," and means of overcoming them are analyzed, as are additional possibilities provided by biomechanical analysis of parts of the musculoskeletal system; prospects of applying energy criterion of adaptiveness are also considered. To illustrate this point, a version of evolution of jaw apparatus and the middle ear of theromorphs is presented, which demonstrates that the degree of adaptiveness of any given trait should only be assessed in the context of the given evolutionary scenario. The conclusion has been drawn that it is necessary to study both sides of adaptation: the condition of being adapted and the process of adapting.
Dzerzhinskiĭ
F Ia
FIa
D000222:Adaptation, Physiological / Q000502:physiology*; D000818:Animals; D005075:Biological Evolution; D007758:Ear, Inner / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D008322:Mammals / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D008334:Mandible / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology