Punctuated Equilibrium
Evolution & Adaptation
1972
Discoverers: Niles Eldredge, Stephen Jay Gould
Overview
The hypothesis that evolution proceeds in rapid bursts of speciation interspersed with long periods of stasis, rather than gradual continuous change.
Significance
Challenged the prevailing gradualist view of evolution and better explained the patterns observed in the fossil record.
Methodology
Analysis of trilobite and land snail fossil sequences showing morphological stasis punctuated by rapid change during speciation events.
Impact
- Reshaped evolutionary theory
- Stimulated debate on tempo and mode of evolution
- Influenced paleontological methodology