How do fossils contribute to our understanding of evolution?

Fossils are essential to our understanding of evolution as they reveal the historical development and adaptation of species over time. Through the study of fossils, scientists can observe how different organisms have changed in response to environmental pressures, leading to the adaptation of species. For example, fossils can show transitional forms that exhibit characteristics of both ancestral and descendant species, providing evidence for the gradual process of evolution and natural selection.

By analyzing the physical characteristics, distribution, and age of fossils, researchers can construct evolutionary trees that illustrate the relationships between different species, helping to trace the lineage and divergence of various organisms. This information not only deepens our understanding of how life on Earth has evolved but also highlights the dynamic nature of species as they adapt to their environments. Therefore, fossils serve as a crucial record of biological history, supporting the theory of evolution through natural selection and adaptation.