Summary
Evolutionary patterns above the species level, including origins of major groups and mass extinctions.
In depth
It covers speciation, adaptive radiations, extinctions and origins of novelties such as flight. Debate: do macro patterns emerge from microevolution (Darwinian view) or involve additional processes such as species selection?
Topics include speciation rates versus extinction rates, the origin of higher taxa and novelties (feathers, the vertebrate jaw), mass extinctions, trends such as increasing body size (Cope's rule) and the effects of species selection, where lineages differ in diversification rates because of traits such as dispersal ability. Developmental evolution links the two levels.
The fossil record shows patterns such as the rise and fall of dominant groups; diversity curves show a Phanerozoic rise punctuated by crashes. Phylogenetic comparative methods test hypotheses about trait evolution using trees. Time-calibrated trees can show how the net diversification rate changes in clades.
Example: the origin of tetrapods involved stepwise changes in fins, with Tiktaalik and Acanthostega documenting the transition from water to land.
Frequently asked questions
What is Macroevolution?
Evolutionary patterns above the species level, including origins of major groups and mass extinctions.
Which area of biology covers Macroevolution, and how advanced is it?
Macroevolution is one of the 53 topics in Evolution. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Evolution, Punctuated Equilibrium, Cambrian Explosion.
Can you give an example of Macroevolution?
The origin of tetrapods or the loss of limbs in snakes.
What should I learn before Macroevolution?
Work through the Beginner topics in Evolution first, such as Evolution, Natural Selection, Charles Darwin, then return to Macroevolution. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Macroevolution?
The closest topics to Macroevolution are Evolution, Punctuated Equilibrium, Cambrian Explosion, Mass Extinctions. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Macroevolution?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Macroevolution. To practise the whole of Evolution, use the Evolution quiz.
How is Macroevolution different from Evolution?
Macroevolution: Evolutionary patterns above the species level, including origins of major groups and mass extinctions. Evolution: Change in the inherited characteristics of populations over successive generations. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Macroevolution step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Evolution and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Evolution quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.