Why some animals lose traits over time, such as flight or eyesight

Evolution often involves losing traits like eyesight or flight when they are no longer advantageous, demonstrating a focus on efficiency and adaptation. Cavefish lose eyes through epigenetic changes, while flightless birds like ostriches evolved from flying ancestors in environments where flight was unnecessary. These losses highlight survival through fitting the environment, not complexity.

Why some animals lose traits over time, such as flight or eyesight
Evolution often involves losing traits like eyesight or flight when they are no longer advantageous, demonstrating a focus on efficiency and adaptation. Cavefish lose eyes through epigenetic changes, while flightless birds like ostriches evolved from flying ancestors in environments where flight was unnecessary. These losses highlight survival through fitting the environment, not complexity.