The punctuated equilibrium model of evolution suggests that new species appear
A) gradually; as groups become isolated, they slowly evolve through their own individual pathway.
B) only after older species disappear from the fossil record.
C) suddenly after long periods of time with little to no change.
D) gradually after long periods of time with little to no change; as groups become isolated, they slowly evolve through their own individual pathway.
E) gradually, but over very short periods of time, so that intermediate species are often observed in the fossil record.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The punctuated equilibrium model suggests that new species appear suddenly after long periods of time with little to no change. This is in contrast to the gradual model of evolution, which suggests that new species appear gradually over time. The punctuated equilibrium model also suggests that there are relatively long periods of stasis, where there is little to no change in a species, followed by brief periods of rapid change where new species appear.

The Punctuated Equilibrium Model of Evolution Suggests That New Species