Date: Sat, 25 May 1996 14:05:33 +0000
Subject: Re: Pigs could flya - Reply


> Paul G:
> >Molluscan and other shells are described by simple differential
> >equations.  There are only certain forms thay can take. [snip]
> >But if I remember correctly, it's because shells develop incrementally. They can only keep adding to their edges.

Rahul:
> The opposition of described by differential equations against
> adaptive consequences of natural selection has no intrinsic justification.

Lisa:  I agree.  The process of "only adding to the edges of the 
opening" may be well described by particular equations.  It is only one 
aspect of shell structure, and does not address questions like 
thickness, growth rates, size reached before sexual maturity, or many 
other things with potential consequences for relative reproductive 
success.

Regards,
Lisa


     --- from list marxism2-AT-lists.village.virginia.edu ---