Crocaducks? Why isn't evolution more random?

[cronus]

Doesn't make sense that distinctions drawn at the greater scale (like prey and predator) should limit what genes can get together below the size and fold barrier of larger animals.

[mistermack]

Doesn't make sense that distinctions drawn at the greater scale (like prey and predator) should limit what genes can get together below the size and fold barrier of larger animals.

It's not designed. It's evolved that way. Loads of things COULD be done better, but aren't. That's because it had to work well at every intermediate stage.
I often wish I had three hands. But before me, there would have to have been animals with three front legs. Which would have been pointless.

[Jason]

I still think a flamethrower on the back of a gazelle would be a great evolutionary advantage.