Q.Explain three saliet features of the Mutation theory.

De Vries's mutation theory proposed that evolution proceeds through sudden, large, random hereditary jumps (mutations), not the slow, gradual accumulation of small variations that Darwin envisioned.

Hugo de Vries proposed the mutation theory based on his studies of the evening primrose (Oenothera lamarckiana), in which he observed sudden, large phenotypic changes appearing in a single generation. The three salient features of the theory are: (1) Mutations are sudden and discontinuous — new, distinct heritable variations (mutations) arise abruptly in a single step, in contrast to Darwin's view of gradual, minute, continuous variations accumulating slowly over generations. (2) Mutations occur randomly — they arise in random, unpredictable directions, with no relation to the adaptive needs of the organism, and are not caused by the environment directly. (3) Mutations are the actual raw material of evolution — de Vries proposed that these large, sudden mutations, not the slow accumulation of small variations, are the fundamental source of the he …