What BEST describes our current understanding about how species evolve over time?

Our current understanding of evolution is primarily based on the theory of natural selection, as proposed by Charles Darwin, which posits that species evolve through gradual changes driven by environmental pressures and genetic variation. Additionally, modern genetics has revealed the role of mutations in driving diversity and adaptation. Evolution is now understood as a complex process influenced by various factors, including genetic drift, gene flow, and environmental changes, leading to the emergence of new species over time. Overall, evolution is a dynamic and ongoing process shaped by both ecological interactions and genetic mechanisms.