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The theory itself is deeply flawed and and not supported by observation, yet it represents Darwin's attempt to explain such diverse phenomona as

• atavisms,
• the intermediate nature of hybrids (blending inheritance),
• Lamarckian use and disuse, and
• limb regeneration.

Simply put, the theory holds that body cells shed 'gemmules' which collect in the reproductive organs prior to fertilization. Thus every cell in the body has a 'vote' in the constitution of the offspring. Atavisms arise due to the awaking of long-dormant gemmules while limbs regenerate due to the activation of gemmules from the missing limb which circulate in the main part of the body.

External link

• On-line Facsimile Edition of The Variation of Animals and Plants Under Domestication from Electronic Scholarly Publishing