Question

The diversification of an ancestral group of organisms into a variety of related forms specialized to fit different environments is known as

• A. Convergent evolution
• B. Divergent evolution
• C. Adaptive radiation
• D. Gradualism
• E. Directional selection

Answer 1

The correct option is C Adaptive radiation

Diversification of ancestral line into different forms which in turn occupy diverse ecological niche is referred to as adaptive radiation. For example, the ancestral seed eating stock of Darwin’s finches diversified according to different types of food (plants, seeds, insects, cactus etc) available and developed type of beak adapted to that food. So, it is evolution of a large number of related species from an unspecialized ancestral form. Correct answer is C.