Question

Why do new species evolve more rapidly after a mass extinction?

Answer 1

More reproduction, thus greater chance of mutation and ability for species to survive without competition.

Explanation:

-Only a small amount of organisms survive, allowing them to reproduce more frequently without competition and form offspring. -More offspring means more scrambling for DNA, increasing the chance of a mutation. This increases the rate of evolution.
-There is less competition for food, so the surviving organisms are able to thrive.
-Ecological niches (openings) form, allowing different species to fill in the new spots through adaptive radiation