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Evolutionary tree of mammals

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Evolutionary tree of mammals
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Course description

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This introduction to the evolution of mammals considers Darwin's observations on mammals and how he noticed that species fell into natural groups. This free course, Evolutionary tree of mammals, looks at evidence from fossils and DNA to examine which mammals are most closely related to whales.

Please note: This course contains several Flash activities which are no longer playable. These are being updated. This course can still be studied, but you may like to postpone your study for now if you would rather have the full experience.

Course learning outcomes

After studying this course, you should be able to:

  • develop an appreciation of the huge variety of different mammals that exist on Earth today
  • see how fossil evidence can help us to understand evolutionary history
  • understand how the structure of DNA can help us to detect differences between different species
  • apply the techniques of DNA analysis to work out which mammals are most closely related to each other
  • appreciate the importance of bringing together evidence from different sources.
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First Published: 09/08/2012

Updated: 25/08/2017

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