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Extinction and self-organized criticality in a model of large-scale evolution

Ricard V. Solé and Susanna C. Manrubia
Phys. Rev. E 54, R42(R) – Published 1 July 1996
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Abstract

A simple model of large-scale biological evolution is presented. This model involves an N-species system where interactions take place through a given connectivity matrix, which can change with time. True extinctions, with removal of less-fit species, occur followed by episodes of diversification. An order parameter may be naturally defined in the model. Through the dynamical equations, the system moves towards the critical threshold, which triggers the extinctions. The frequency distribution N(s) of extinctions of size s follows a power law N(s)sα with α2.3, close to known palaeobiological evidence.

  • Received 27 February 1996

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.54.R42

©1996 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

Ricard V. Solé and Susanna C. Manrubia

  • Complex Systems Research Group, Departament de Física i Enginyeria Nuclear, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Sor Eulàlia d'Anzizu s/n. Campus Nord, Mòdul B5, 08034 Barcelona, Spain

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Vol. 54, Iss. 1 — July 1996

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