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Author
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Topic: Phylagenesis at the Cambrian
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Clyde Stauffer
Member
Member # 1959
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posted 23. May 2006 09:05
I and another Ph.D. biochemist are in the process of constructing a seminar about Evolution and ID. One of the points I make is about the unreasonableness of the Darwinian explanation (actually, mainly avoidance) for the Cambrian explosion. My question is: What is the most likely number of phyla generated at that boundary?
Currently I am using the conservative estimate from Stephen Meyer of 19 unquestionably new phyla. However, Gould makes a general estimate of "25 to 35" phyla, and DeHaan and Wiester call it "fifty" new body forms. I would appreciate any references people can supply as to the sources of various estimates. When I present my analysis of the significance of this burst of phylagenesis in a period of 5 - 10 My, I would like it to be as sound as possible.
Note: even on the lowest estimate of 19 phyla in 10My, the 'rate' of phylagenesis is 1900 times the rate during the previous 3By (3 phyla in 3By)or the subsequent rate of 6 phyla in 550My. As an enzymologist I find that to be evidence that the NeoDarwinian mechanism(s) are inadequate.
Guidance and references will be greatly appreciated.
Clyde Stauffer
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Christopher D. Beling
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Member # 723
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posted 25. May 2006 21:56
Clyde, The best source on the Cambrian Explosion that I have read is in the book " Darwinism, Design and Public Education" [Ed John Angus Cambell and Stephey Meyer]. The article is titled "The Cambrian Explosion - Biology's Big Bang" [by Stephen Meyer, Marcus Ross, Paul Nelson and Paul Chien] and is on page 323. It clearly deals with these issues of how many new phyla appeared. It is a not without dispute since some Phyla do not appear in the fossil record because they are very small and have soft bodies. The appendices C, D and E give details on the Phyla and Sub-Phyla and I think you will find them helpful. Chris
[ 25. May 2006, 21:58: Message edited by: Christopher D. Beling ]
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Scott
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Member # 1222
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posted 26. May 2006 13:02
I would suggest that you take a look at Valentine's book. I think it's called "On the Origin of Phyla," or something like that.
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