There are seven (7) established theories of macroevolution viz.
i) Chromosomal speciation theory, ii) Shifting balance theory, iii) Punctuated equilibrium theory, iv) Allopatric speciation theory, v) Species selection theory,
Professor Dr. Md. Abdul Ahad
Department of Entomology,
Faculty of Agriculture,
Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science & Technology University,
Dinajpur-5200, Bangladesh.
In my view there are as many 'theories' as one may wish to delineate according to whatever categories one may chose. There is really no objective criterion to contest any choice since that is a personal decision as to how to cut up the evolutionary pie. For example, if I were to view 'theories' as research programs that provide a synthesis or integration of space, time, and biological form (as the three principle dimensions of evolution), there are, in my perspective, only two synthetic (integrated) theories - the Darwinian synthesis, and panbiogeographic synthesis. The former is based on an evolutionary model for biological differentiation requiring centers of origin, chance dispersal, and adaptation through natural selection. The latter considers allopatric differentiation of widespread ancestors, ecological dispersal, and a combination of natural selection and biological differentiation mechanisms (such as molecular drive, biased gene conversion etc.).
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