Gradualism is rarely observed in the fossil record because:
A) too many species are extinct.
B) the fossil record is incomplete.
C) not enough species have evolved.
D) very few instances of speciation have been observed.
E) more scientists believe in the model of punctuated equilibrium.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fossil record is incomplete, which makes it difficult to observe gradual changes in species over time. Many organisms do not fossilize well, and even when they do, the conditions necessary for fossilization are rare. This leads to gaps in the record that can make evolutionary transitions appear more abrupt than they might have been.

Gradualism Is Rarely Observed in the Fossil Record Because