Major Evolutionary Radiations

The astounding diversity of life that we see today is the product of species multiplication and morphological divergence through geological time. Evidence from the fossil record shows that this evolutionary radiation has not occurred at an even rate. Instead, relatively short-lasting phases of evolution have produced the major radiations that are seen in many taxonomic groups, such as flowering plants during the late Cretaceous. This volume surveys patterns of major evolutionary radiation and their possible causes.