Question

Which of following was/were conclusions from David Raup's studies on changes in diversity of marine species over time?

A) random patterns of extinction and origination can produce trend-like patterns
B) species diversity will always increase over time unless there is a mass extinction
C) it is impossible to tell whether elevated extinction or elevated origination is responsible for changes in species diversity
D) none of the above

Answer 1

David Raup's studies on changes in diversity of marine species concluded that random patterns of extinction and origination can produce trend-like patterns.

Step-by-step explanation:

David Raup's studies on changes in diversity of marine species over time led to the conclusion that random patterns of extinction and origination can produce trend-like patterns. This means that species diversity can change over time in a non-linear manner, showing periods of increase and decrease. Raup's studies did not support the idea that species diversity will always increase over time unless there is a mass extinction. Additionally, Raup's studies did not conclude that it is impossible to determine whether elevated extinction or elevated origination is responsible for changes in species diversity. Therefore, the correct conclusion from David Raup's studies is A) random patterns of extinction and origination can produce trend-like patterns.