Which statement describes the punctuated equilibrium theory? species stay the same for a long time and then change quickly due to behavioral changes. species stay the same for a long time and then change quickly due to environmental changes. species change constantly because of a variety of factors. species are constantly in stasis.

Species stay the same for a long time and then change quickly due to environmental changes.

 A punctuated equilibrium theory states that individual species tend to stay the same or no change over a long period of time and then enter a period of rapid change due to environmental changes, which gives rise to new species. Moreover, it generally applies to sexually reproducing organisms but other biologists have applied the model to non-sexual species like virus.