key term - Galapagos Islands

Definition

The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean, known for their unique biodiversity and as a key location for Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. These islands played a crucial role in the development of the theory of natural selection due to the distinct species found there, which adapted to their specific environments over time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Galapagos Islands consist of 13 main islands, 6 smaller islands, and numerous islets and rocks, forming a unique ecosystem.
2. Charles Darwin visited the Galapagos Islands in 1835, where he observed variations among species that contributed to his formulation of the theory of evolution.
3. The islands are home to many endemic species, including the famous Galapagos tortoises and various types of finches, each adapted to their specific habitats.
4. The Galapagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for their rich biodiversity and ecological significance.
5. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect the unique wildlife of the Galapagos from threats such as invasive species and tourism-related impacts.

Review Questions

• How did Charles Darwin's observations in the Galapagos Islands contribute to his understanding of natural selection?
  • Charles Darwin's visit to the Galapagos Islands allowed him to observe unique species that had adapted to their specific environments. For instance, he noted variations among finch species on different islands, leading him to theorize that these adaptations were a result of natural selection. This experience was pivotal in shaping his ideas about evolution and how species evolve over time based on environmental pressures.
• Discuss the significance of endemic species found in the Galapagos Islands in understanding biodiversity and evolution.
  • Endemic species in the Galapagos Islands provide critical insights into biodiversity and evolutionary processes. These species have evolved separately from their mainland counterparts due to geographic isolation, showcasing how environmental factors can drive adaptation. The study of these species helps scientists understand speciation and the mechanisms that lead to diverse life forms tailored to specific ecological niches.
• Evaluate the impact of human activity on the ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands and its implications for conservation efforts.
  • Human activity has significantly impacted the ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands, leading to challenges such as invasive species introduction and increased tourism pressure. These factors threaten native species and disrupt delicate ecological balances. Conservation efforts must address these challenges through sustainable practices and strict regulations to protect the unique biodiversity that makes the islands vital for evolutionary studies and environmental health.

Related terms

Natural Selection:

A process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring, influencing evolutionary change.

Endemic Species: Species that are native to and restricted to a specific geographic location, such as those found exclusively in the Galapagos Islands.

Adaptive Radiation:

The evolutionary process in which organisms diversify rapidly into a wide variety of forms to adapt to different environments, as seen with finches in the Galapagos.