The theory of evolution explains that species change in small ways through a gradual process of natural selection that occurs over the course of many generations. these small changes can eventually lead to entirely new species. if a scientist discovered a sequence of dna that links the manatee (a marine mammal) to their land-dwelling ancestors, which explains the likely effect of this discovery on the theory of evolution? the new discovery will cause the theory to be modified because it adds to current knowledge. the new discovery will cause the theory to be dismissed because it contradicts it. the new discovery will further deny the theory because it presents evidence that contradicts it. the new discovery will further support the theory because it presents evidence that supports it.