Evolution in action.

[popeyespappy]

Congratulations! You have just explained how natural selection works in evolution even though you have failed to grasp the significance. This experiment was probably not an example of a new genetic mutation. The mutation that allowed the bacteria to survive in the antibiotic was probably already present in a small portion of the population when it was introduced into the environment. It just didn't give that portion of the population any particular survival advantage until the environment changed. Once their environment changed though the only bacteria that could survive in it were the ones with a different genetic code. i.e. there was a change in the frequency of the alleles within the two separate populations. This is an example that clearly fits the very definition of evolution.  

Same thing with the peppered moths. Some dark pigmented peppered moths existed prior to the changes in environment pressures selected them for a higher survival rate than lighter colored ones.

It seems that we are mostly in agreement then; all though I'm not clear on what the significance you think I am failing to grasp is (I think it is more of an assumption really).

The nylon eating bacteria on the other hand is a documented example of a new mutation developing in a population It was actually a combination of two separate mutations that happened many generations apart.

Yes, my understanding is that this too is repeatable, and is not that large of a change.  I also find that these types of examples seem to be particular to bacteria.

The significance is the available evidence says the process of natural selection along with mutations, gene flow and genetic drift are responsible for the diversity of life on this planet. Natural selection allows the organisms with the genetic variables most suited for a particular environment to survive at a higher rate than those which are less suited by changing the distribution of alleles in populations.

My assumption is that based on you other posts in this thread you have a problem with evolution being able to account for the diversity of life. You seem to prefer a goddidit answer. Well we have countless observed examples of evolution available to us. We know organisms change from one generation to the next because of genetic differences between the generations. We have identified and verified many mechanisms for this genetic change. We have observed natural selection acting on genetic differences to change the distribution of alleles in populations. Despite all this you seem to prefer your goddidit solution even though by all outward appearances no god was required. If indeed you believe that goddidit then present your evidence that your beliefs are true.