If a Changing Environment Increases Rates of Evolution, Why Do

question 5

Essay

If a changing environment increases rates of evolution, why do we see an increase in extinction rates following rapid global catastrophes?

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Definitions:

Ecological Niches

Specific positions or roles played by organisms within their environment, considering how they obtain their energy and nutrients, and interact with other organisms.

Clades

Clades are groups of organisms that are classified together based on sharing a common ancestor, thereby forming a branch on the tree of life.

Fossil Record

The collection of physical remains of organisms from the past, preserved in Earth's crust, which provides evidence of the history of life.

Microorganisms

Tiny living organisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, that can be seen only with a microscope.