Adaptive Radiation

Adaptive radiation is an evolutionary process where a single ancestor species rapidly diverges into various forms to adapt to different environments or niches. This typically occurs after a major environmental change or when new habitats become available, allowing creatures to exploit unique resources. For example, Darwin's finches in the Galápagos Islands are a classic case; they evolved various beak shapes and sizes to effectively feed on different food sources. This process highlights how species can diversify remarkably to survive and thrive in diverse surroundings.