Definition
noun, plural: macroevolutions
Evolution happening on a large scale, e.g. at or above the level of a species, over geologic time resulting in the divergence of taxonomic groups.
Supplement
Macroevolution involves variation of allele frequencies at or above the level of a species, where an allele is a specific iteration of a given gene. It is an area of study concerned with variation in frequencies of alleles that are shared between species and with speciation events, and also includes extinction. It is contrasted with microevolution, which is mainly concerned with the small-scale patterns of evolution within a species or population.
Word origin: Greek makro-, from makrós, long + evolution.
Related forms: macroevolutionary (adjective).
Compare: microevolution.
Dictionary > Macroevolution
You will also like...

Birth Control and Contraception
Different pregnancy and birth control and contraception strategies are described. Read this tutorial to learn each of th..

The Evolutionary Development of Multicellular Organisms
Multicellular organisms evolved. The first ones were likely in the form of sponges. Multicellularity led to the evolutio..

Control of Growth & Development
Control of Growth & Development tutorials look at how the genetic makeup determines the biological processes on a da..

Gibberellins and Gibberellic Acid
This tutorial describes the role of gibberellin family in plants. Find out the effects of gibberellin on plant growth an..

Population Growth and Survivorship
This lesson looks at population attributes, regulation, and growth. It also covers population genetics, particularly gen..

Freshwater Communities & Lentic Waters
Lentic or still water communities can vary greatly in appearance -- from a small temporary puddle to a large lake. The s..