Jaina Biology

SR No.: 001543
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: J C Sikdar
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad
Total Pages: 340
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Science, Biology, & Philosophy
File Size: 19 MB

Page 335

Conclusion
324
Conversely, it is observed in the Jaina Āgamas that may of the animals inhabiting the same type of habitat, e.g. water, have developed) similar structures which make them superficially alike, even though they may be but distantly related, e. g. the dolphin apd porpoises (susumāra 229 which are a mammals, both bony and cartilaginous fishes, "have ail evolved streamlined shapes, dorsal fins, tail fins and fliper like fore arm, hind limbs which make them look much alike" 230
The evolution and adaptation of each species of organisms as suggested by biologic interrelation in Jaina Biology have not occurred in a biologic vacuum, independent of other forms, instead many species have had a marked influence on the adaptation of other species. As a result many types of cross dependency, between species have arisen. Some of the clearest and best understood of these types involves insects (Kita), e. g. Bhramara (bees), Kitapatanga (butterflies and moths),281 which help indirectly in the pollination of a great many plants, 232 e.g. gourd (tumbi),231 etc., utpala (lotus)234 etc.
A close study of the blologic interlationsbip of plants and animals, thoir mode of nutrition, ecosystem, habitat and nicbe, and types of interactions,235 and principles of evolution, its living evidence, principles of ecology and the outcome evolution : adaptation as indicated in some form in Jaina Biology reveals that the communities of plants and animals are constantly undergoing an analogous reshuffling and the concept of the dynamic states of communities is a valid one. Plant and animal population are constantly subject to changes in their physical and biologic environment and must adapt or die as suggested by Ahāra pada Niksepa (The knowledge of food) of the Sūtrakrtānga 236
Communities of organisms - plants and animals as described in the Jaina Āgamas exhibit growth, 237 specialization and interdependence, characteristic form and even development from immaturity to maturity, old age and death,238 revealing the dynamic balance of Nature.
229. Sūtrakrtanga II. 3. 57. Ottaradhyayana Sūtra 36.172; Pannavanā Sutta 1.67. 230. Biology, 583. 231. Uttaradhyayana Sūtra 36. 146, Pannavana, Sutta 1.58.
Tattvārthadhigama Sutra II, 24. 232. Biology, D. 586. 233. Panpavana 1.45 (Tumbi) 234. Bhagavati 9. 33. 385; 11. (1-8) 235. Sūtrakstânga 11. 3. Ahāraniksepa 236. Sūtrakplānga II, 3. 237, Tarkarahasyadipikā. Țika on v. 49 ( Pratiniyatavęddhi,) 238. Tarkarahasyadipika, Țika od v. 49, Gunaratna, 159.