How quick is evolution?

[PatTheRat]

Let me use an example here with human. Say a few homans stared being born with an extra finger or even a finger less. If this was deemed to benefit them, how quickly would the entire human race begin to be born with an extra finger? Is it a matter of a generation, or thousands of years?

[Hamish]

I would question your interpritation of the results for your last example andy. There are many factor that could result in an increase in stature, you would need to proved that it is a result of an increase in the portion of people carrying a specific gene/genes which resulted in the change.

[Bob A Job]

The answer is - it depends upon the Mutation/Change

If there was only one genetic line that had an immunity to UV light damage and we lost our O-zone layer over night then it would only take one generation for all those who were not immune to die out and the single genetic line would be the sole populas, and you could say they were the  successfull species.

For something less drastic that could not be controled by modern medicine or science it could take millions of years. If ever. 

See my earlier debate - http://www.theanswerbank.co.uk/Science/Question96976.htm l

[toby19]

i think god might have something to say about your ideas.

[Bob A Job]

toby19 i hope your joking,

this is the science section.

Maybe you should stick to answering in the

Body & Soul or History & Myths

[slimfandango]

Andy Hughes

"Because humans are such a highly developed species, there would be plenty of opportunity to adapt to the new 'requirement' without the need for evolution to take over.
"

I like that point.

However, if this is the case, how do you explain the evolution of horns on the unicorn? Hmm?