Question

Describe one example of adaptive radiation.

Answer 1

Adaptive radiation is the process by which several species in a given geographic area evolve from a common ancestor and radiate into other geographic areas (habitats). Among the best illustrations of this phenomenon are Darwin’s finches. Other varieties with modified beaks evolved from the original seed-eating finches, allowing them to become vegetarian and insectivorous. Australian marsupials are another example. Various marsupials, all found on the Australian island continent, descended from a common ancestor.