Adaptive radiation
Definition
Adaptive radiation is the rapid evolution of diversely adapted species from a common ancestor following the opening of new habitats or the creation of new ecological niches. This process often occurs when a change in the environment makes new resources available, creates new challenges, or opens new environmental niches.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Adaptive radiation often follows mass extinctions or colonization of new areas.
- The finches on the Galápagos Islands are one of the most famous examples of adaptive radiation.
- Adaptive radiation can lead to significant increases in biodiversity as species evolve to exploit different ecological niches.
- It typically involves both divergent evolution and speciation processes.
- Adaptive radiation can be driven by factors such as changes in available resources, predation pressures, and environmental changes.
Review Questions
- What role does adaptive radiation play in increasing biodiversity?
- Can you name an example of adaptive radiation and explain how it occurred?
- What environmental conditions might trigger adaptive radiation?
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Related terms
Speciation: The evolutionary process by which populations evolve to become distinct species.
Ecological Niche: The role and position a species has in its environment, including all its interactions with biotic and abiotic factors.
Convergent Evolution: The independent evolution of similar traits in different species due to adaptation to similar environments or ecological niches.
