necroevolutionary

Necroevolutionary is a term that describes a hypothetical process of biological evolution driven by death. It suggests that the selective pressures and genetic changes that occur as a consequence of mortality could lead to species adapting and evolving in ways that might not be apparent through traditional evolutionary models focusing solely on reproduction and survival. The concept implies that the characteristics of a species might be shaped not just by what allows it to reproduce successfully, but also by the ways in which its members die.

This could manifest in several theoretical ways. For instance, if a particular cause of death is prevalent, such as predation by a specific animal, necroevolutionary pressures might favor individuals with traits that make them less susceptible to that predator, even if those traits are not directly related to reproductive success. Alternatively, if a disease is widespread, genetic variations that offer resistance, even if they have a minor impact on survival until reproductive age, could be selected for. The idea also touches upon how organisms decompose and interact with their environment after death, potentially influencing the evolution of scavenging species or the nutrient cycles within an ecosystem.

The term "necroevolutionary" is not a widely established scientific concept and is more often found in speculative or philosophical discussions about evolution. It challenges the conventional focus on survival of the fittest by highlighting the potential evolutionary significance of death itself as a selective force. It prompts consideration of the full life cycle, including the terminal stages, as a source of evolutionary impetus.