Re: mechanism of evolution

Pim van Meurs (entheta@eskimo.com)
Thu, 12 Jun 1997 08:53:56 -0400

JQ: -----The theory that evolution may have occured in spurts is an
interesting
one. Could someone inform me of mechanisms or motivations that might me
behind such an event. I would also like to know what requirements you

If you mean by 'in spurts' that there is evidence of stasis followed by
rapid change in fossil record then Gould's punctuated equilibrium is such
a mechanism. Even Darwin understood that some sort of geological isolation
was required.

JQ: think this would place on the self correcting mechanisms of DNA. Would

If a mutation happens then the self correcting mechanism of DNA has failed.

JQ: this type of evolution require the genetic codes for the formation of
self
correcting mechanisms to evolve? If so, would they have to evolve back to
thier original state?

Self correcting mechanisms might reduce the mutation rate.