Question

Choose the correct answers from the alternatives given .
The many species of Galapagos finches were each adapted to eating different foods. This is an example. of

• A. Sympatric speciation
• B. Adaptive radiation
• C. Gene flow
• D. All of these

Answer 1

The correct option is B Adaptive radiation

Adaptive radiation is the relatively fast evolution of many species from a single common ancestor. Darwin's finches are a classic example of adaptive radiation. Their common ancestor arrived on the Galapagos about two million years ago. During the time that has passed Darwin's finches have evolved into 15 recognized species differing in body size, beak shape, song and feeding behavior. Changes in the size and form of the beak have enabled different species to utilize different food resources such as insects, seeds, nectar from cactus flowers as well as blood from iguanas.

So, the correct option is 'Adaptive radiation'.