Complex evolving systems such as the biosphere, ecosystems and societies exhibit sudden collapses, for reasons that are only partially understood. Here we study this phenomenon using a mathematical model of a system that evolves under Darwinian selec
tion and exhibits the spontaneous growth, stasis and collapse of its structure. We find that the typical lifetime of the system increases sharply with the diversity of its components or species. We also find that the prime reason for crashes is a naturally occurring internal fragility of the system. This fragility is captured in the network organizational character and is related to a reduced multiplicity of pathways between its components. This work suggests new parameters for understanding the robustness of evolving molecular networks, ecosystems, societies, and markets.
