Title Author Date

A new evolution theory Zhang , Jianyi Sep 21, 2004

Sir/Madam:

This is Jianyi Zhang.
Recently, I publish a new book, which brings a new mechanism of evolution. I put core idea in my website site (http://chickensfirst.net).

The book tells a simple mechanism of speciation. I have some discussion
in talk.origin, I answer major critiques in FAQ section.

Would you please let your reader aware of wesite and its contents, so interested readers have an opportunity to be exposed to it.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks

Jianyi Zhang

Title Author Date

A new evolution theory Elsberry, Wesley R. Sep 22, 2004

The GCMCI model of speciation is too restrictive. It only works for species that reproduce sexually. It doesn't account for various known species groups with differing karyotypes. Designation of "X" and "Y" chromosomes is standard only for specific taxa; a more general terminology should be used to describe the model. (This is especially true given the author's fascination with chickens, where the sex chromosomes are "Z" and "W".)

Changes in karyotype underly several known mechanisms of speciation that predate GCMCI. One such follows reductions in chromosome number, typically by Robertsonian fusion, followed by reproduction among close relatives (not necessarily twins). The pattern of karyotypy in Suidae suggests that this mechanism was an important mode of speciation there.

There are lots of known mechanisms for speciation, some of them observed to happen, and others inferred. Any discussion of speciation that isn't cast in pluralistic terms is too restrictive.

Online resources on the topic of speciation include:
http://www.talkorigins.org/faqs/faq-speciation.html
http://www.talkorigins.org/faqs/speciation.html
http://www.talkorigins.org/origins/biblio/speciation.html

Paul Gross has recommended two books on the topic of speciation: Menno Schilthuizen's "Frogs, Flies, and Dandelions" as a readable introductory piece, and the more technical work by Jerry Coyne and Allen Orr, "Speciation".

Wesley R. Elsberry