Question

Adaptive radiation is an example for

• A. Directional selection
• B. Diversifying selection
• C. Stabilizing selection
• D. Sympatric speciation

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Diversifying selection

• The disruptive selection also called diversifying selection.
• It describes changes in population genetics in which extreme values for a trait are favoured over intermediate values.
• In this case, the variance of the trait increases and the population is divided into two distinct groups.
• A key part of the ecological theory of adaptive radiation is disruptive selection during periods of sympathy.
• Hence, Adaptive radiation is an example of Diversifying selection.
• So, the correct answer is 'Diversifying selection'.