Explain the salient features of Hugo de Vries theory of mutation. How is Darwin's theory of natural selection different from it? Explain.

Explanation

Hugo de Vries based on his work on evening primrose brought forth the idea of mutations. According to him, mutations are large differences arising in a population suddenly. He believed that it is mutation which causes evolution not the minor heritable variations. According to him these mutations are directionless and random. DeVries believed mutation caused speciation and hence called it saltation (single step large mutation). According to Darwin's theory of Natural selection evolution took place due to minor variations which were heritable. According to him, these variations are small and directional. According to Darwin evolution was a gradual process while de Vries believed that a sudden mutation causes speciation.