exaptation
Definition from Wiktionary, the free dictionary
[edit] English
[edit] Noun
Wikipedia exaptation (plural exaptations)
- (biology) The use of a biological structure or function for a purpose other than that for which it initially evolved.
- Birds initially developed wings and feathers as a means of heat regulation. The use of wings for flight is an example of exaptation.
[edit] References
- McGarr, Paul and Rose, Stephen (editors): The Richness of Life, the essential Stephen Jay Gould; Jonathan Cape (2006) ISBN 0224076078
