D. 16. Scientist can use the fossil record to determine changes in an environment, what does the abrupt appearance of a new organisms show? The abrupt appearance of a new organisms is evidence of __ and __

The abrupt appearance of a new organism in the fossil record can indicate a significant event or change in the environment. This could be due to a sudden change in climate, the introduction of a new species, or a sudden change in the availability of resources. The abrupt appearance of a new organism can also indicate that the environment was changing rapidly, and that the organism was able to adapt and thrive in these new conditions.