Some implications of mass extinction for the evolution of complex lifeExtinction has the destructive effect of eliminating established lineages from an evolutionary system, and the constructive effect of vacating ecospace into which new lineages can evolve. Mass extinctions, which are times of unusually intense extinction, have been consistently followed by major radiations of new lineages. Extraterrestrial impacts associated with extinction events and a periodic recurrence of these events implicates an extraterrestrial forcing mechanism as the ultimate cause of mass extinction. This suggests that the extraplanetary environment has played an important, active role in the development of complex life on earth.
Document ID
19860053409
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Sepkoski, J. J., Jr. (Chicago, University IL, United States)