19 macroevolution

microevolution

change within a population (mutations and changes in allele frequencies)

macroevolution

evolution of higher taxonomic groups (species, genera, familia, etc)

macromutation

a type of mutation in genetics that results in a significant change in the phenotype of an organism, often outside the normal range of variation within a population

neoteny

sexual maturity reached while retaining juvenile features

evolutionary innovation

evolution of a new functional trait, body part, or dramatic change of an existing body part (can trigger radiations)

extinction

the complete disappearance of a species from Earth

mass extinction

periods of very high extinction rate

living fossil

an organism that has retained its form over millions of years, showing minimal evolutionary change from its ancient ancestors

lazarus taxon

group that appeared to be extinct but was later found to be alive

how do macroevolutionary patterns emerge from microevolutionary processes?

Macroevolutionary patterns (like new species, body plans, or major traits) emerge from the accumulation of many small microevolutionary changes (like mutations, selection, drift) over long periods of time.

what causes trait gains and losses?

Trait gains and losses are caused by genetic changes (mutations), shaped over time by natural selection, genetic drift, and environmental changes.

why do species go extinct?

Species go extinct when they can’t survive or reproduce in a changing environment, and they can’t adapt fast enough.