What does evolutionary biology primarily focus on?

Evolutionary biology primarily focuses on changes in organisms over time, which encompasses the processes and mechanisms that drive the evolution of species. This field examines how genetic variations, environmental pressures, and natural selection contribute to the gradual development and adaptation of life forms throughout history. By tracing the lineage of organisms and studying fossil records, evolutionary biology seeks to understand the relationships among different species, how they have evolved, and the factors influencing their diversity and complexity.

The study of plants, while important in certain contexts, is a narrower focus that does not encapsulate the broader scope of evolutionary biology. Similarly, examining chemical processes is more aligned with biochemistry rather than evolutionary concepts. Interactions between organisms, such as ecological relationships, are significant but primarily fall under the umbrella of ecology, which may intersect with evolutionary biology but does not encompass the overall focus of evolutionary changes over time.