Punctuated Equilibrium describes the trend of evolution as a population remains generally the same for long periods of time called stases. This theory was founded by Eldredge and Gould. The neo-llamas experienced this with their claws, as they had hooves for many years until they developed claws- a drastic change, at an abrupt point. This was a cause of the hilly, undulating grounds.
Gradualism is a slow and even transformation, usually affecting the whole ancestral population. This was portrayed by the neo-llama by the increasingly large size of the body, due to the large organs, working extra hard. The kidney had more toxins to filter, the lungs more dirty air to cycle through to obtain necessary oxygen. The shorter legs were another example of this.
Due to the lack of plants as food, the llamas began to eat insects and eventually small animals in order to survive. They developed canine teeth to tear their prey in place of their plants-chewing molars.
They’re short legs resulted from selection pressures. As the llamas born with slightly shorter legs were able to catch prey more easily, they were also able to survive and reproduce more productively.
The erect ears were another selection pressure for them to hear their prey. As llamas initially have a thick coat to keep them warm, a thicker coat was developed due to the colder climate.
