microevolution

Microevolution refers to small genetic changes within a species over time. These changes can result from mutations, natural selection, or genetic drift, and they lead to variations in traits like color, size, or resistance. For example, a population of insects might develop resistance to a pesticide after several generations. These minor shifts accumulate gradually, influencing the diversity and adaptability of a species. Microevolution occurs constantly in nature and helps populations respond to environmental changes, but it does not lead to the formation of new species—only to variations within the existing ones.