The astounding diversity of life that we see today is the product of species multiplication and morphological divergence through geological time. Evidence from the fossil record shows that this evolutionary radiation has not occurred at an even rate. Instead, relatively short-lasting phases of evolution have produced the major radiations that are seen in many taxonomic groups, such as flowering plants during the late Cretaceous. This volume surveys patterns of major evolutionary radiation and their possible causes. Three chapters discuss general aspects of major radiation; the remaining fifteen chapters focus on radiations in taxonomic groups with ample fossil records. The contributors are scientists widely recognized as authorities in their fields. This volume will complement previous publications that have concentrated on extinctions, and it will be of interest to palaeontologists and evolutionary biologists alike.