More Implications?

Using an appropriately designed and replicated study of a latitudinal influence on rates of evolution, we test the prediction by K. Rohde [(1992) Oikos 65, 514-527] that the tempo of molecular evolution in the tropics is greater than at higher latitudes. Consistent with this prediction we found tropical plant species had more than twice the rate of molecular evolution as closely related temperate congeners.

Here's the abstract that I found because of Dienekes' Anthropology Blog and also a link to the related Live Science article.

The question then, if this is true, what are the implications? I can think of three.

For a SF writer? It suggests to me, if it holds up, that worlds with more energy input are going to have faster rates of evolution and speciation than earth does. Conversely, worlds that have lower energy input are going to have slower rates of evolution. Ecologies from worlds around F class stars might be dangerous for us to colonize. That's a thought to file away perhaps for a future novel.

For the dino nut POV? Dinosaurs, in all the books I have read so far about mass exctinctions, had a huge turnover in species. Since the world appears to have been a bit more tropical...might we have an explanation as to why?

For the cautionary POV? The energy input and retention can't be too high...or we get the Permian Mass Extinction. However, might we be on the point of increased speciation as part of the recovery from the mass extinction we are causing as a part of the global warming? Interesting thought that. Belongs under the Great Vision novel notes.