Question

Give the salient features of the following:

Neo-Lamarckism

Answer 1

1. Modification of Lamarckism: Neo-Lamarckism is a modified form of classical Lamarckism. It rejects ideas such as an internal vital force and emphasises the environment's direct effects.
2. Direct Effect on Germ Cells: Environmental factors can directly affect the germ cells (germplasm). Germ cells are therefore not considered completely protected from environmental influences.
3. Inheritance of Acquired Characters: Only acquired changes that affect the germ cells or germplasm are considered heritable. Changes occurring only in somatic cells are not inherited.
4. Role of New Needs and Use or Disuse: Neo-Lamarckism retains the idea that organisms may change in response to new environmental needs. Use and disuse of organs may contribute to these changes.
5. Environmental Influence on Heredity: Neo-Lamarckism attempts to explain how environmental effects can influence germ cells and thereby allow certain acquired characters to be transmitted to the next generation.