A multiplicative multifractal model for originations and extinctions

摘要: Recent works have suggested that the fossil record exhibits a fractal structure; i.e., processes, such as extinction, follow power-law size distribution and their time series show 1/f power spectrum. This structure has been used evidence evolutionary dynamics are an example of self-organized critical (SOC) process. We reexamined this claim by analyzing detailed marine genus-level extinctions originations. Our results indicate neither nor origination metrics or spectrum characteristic SOC related models. also believe underlying assumptions incompatible with our understanding processes controlling macroevolutionary patterns. Statistical analyses data sets compatible, however, presence multifractal self-similarity in both records, consistent hierarchical multiplicative generating model assumes multiple causal mechanisms, acting over many spatial temporal scales, interact to promote inhibit originations extinctions. In view, same event can quite different impacts depending on state biotic physical system at it occurs. may least partially explain phenomena imperfect correlation between eustatic sea-level changes apparent nonlinear response systems bolide impacts.