Life Sciences

Goldfish Evolution

None of these exhibited goldfish can be found in the wild, even though that is where their ancestors came from. Like all organisms, wild goldfish produce offspring with mutations —genetic changes that result in odd colors and shapes. People select these mutants and breed them in captivity over many generations, creating new fish with exaggerated traits, like the ones exhibited here. All sorts of living things—from dogs and cats to vegetables and flowers—have been selectively bred to suit human needs and tastes.