Macroevolution: Patterns of Evolution above the Species Level

A course in evolution above the species level analyzing the interface between evolution at the species level and higher systematic and ecological hierarchies. The discussion will include origin, diversification, and extinction patterns of lineages; rates of evolution, deterministic versus stochastic patterns; theproblem of adaptation and diversification; developmental aspects of phylogeny; taxic distribution in space and time; phylogenetic inference; morphological versus paleontological data; the molecular clock; ecological versus historical biogeography; gradualism versus saltationalism; neodarwinian paradigm versus others at supra-specific levels.

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