Discussion 2 - The Age of Giant Insects

Discussion 2

Topic

The studies of fossil records indicate that current insects evolved from giant ancestors. Watch the video titled “The Age of Giant Insects” to learn more about insect evolution. Some scientists argue that the era of giant insects ended as the levels of atmospheric molecular oxygen declined; others stated that as birds conquered the skies, they outcompeted larger insect species. To learn more about this passage in evolutionary history, read the article titled “Reign of the giant insects ended with the evolution of birds” available at the Indiana Public Media website. 

Questions

1.  Postulate a hypothesis to explain the disappearance of giant insects during evolution.

2.  Explain the evidence that supports the stated hypothesis.

3.  Proposed at least one experiment to test the stated hypothesis.