01Evolution is happening now
Antibiotic resistance in bacteria (MRSA), pesticide resistance in insects, herbicide resistance in weeds, and rapidly changing viruses (flu, SARS-CoV-2 variants) show evolution in real time.
Fossil and molecular records keep updating our understanding.
02Why it's fast in microbes
Short generation times + huge populations + mutation (and horizontal gene transfer) = rapid adaptation. That's why doctors stress finishing antibiotic courses and avoiding unnecessary antibiotics.
03Notebook box
Strong selective pressure + short generations = fast evolution.
Worked example: Why does a new flu vaccine come out every year? → The virus evolves quickly; antigens change.