makroevolution

Makroevolution refers to evolutionary change at or above the species level. It encompasses the broad patterns of evolution over long periods, such as the origin of new species, the diversification of life into major groups, and the extinction of species. Macroevolutionary studies often focus on fossils, comparative anatomy, and molecular data to understand these large-scale changes.

Key concepts in macroevolution include speciation, which is the process by which new species arise, and adaptive radiation, where a single lineage diversifies into multiple species that occupy different ecological niches. Macroevolutionary patterns are also shaped by factors like mass extinctions, which can dramatically alter the course of evolution by eliminating many species and opening up new opportunities for surviving lineages.

The study of macroevolution is distinct from microevolution, which focuses on smaller-scale changes within populations, such as shifts in allele frequencies. However, the processes of microevolution are generally considered the building blocks for macroevolution. For instance, the accumulation of many small genetic changes over vast timescales can eventually lead to the formation of new species and the emergence of major evolutionary trends. Understanding macroevolution is crucial for comprehending the history of life on Earth and the diversity of organisms we see today.