Question

Choose the correct option that refers to adaptive radiation.

• A. Evolution of different species from a common ancestor to other geographical areas
• B. Migration of members of different species to a common geographical area
• C. Power of adaptation in an individual to a variety of environments
• D. Evolution by anthropogenic action

Hint:

Adaptive radiation: one ancestral form gives rise to many species that spread into different habitats, like Darwin finches.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Define the term:
Adaptive radiation is the process in which many species evolve from one common ancestor. The new species spread into different habitats or geographical areas.
Each new species adapts to its own habitat.

Step 2: Recall the examples:
Darwin finches of the Galapagos Islands developed different beaks from one seed-eating ancestor.
Australian marsupials also arose from one ancestral stock.

Step 3: Check each option:
(A) Different species arising from one ancestor and spreading to other areas is adaptive radiation. This is correct.
(B) Migration of different species into one area is the reverse of radiation, so it is wrong.
(C) An individual coping with many environments is acclimatisation or tolerance, not evolution of species.
(D) Evolution through human action is anthropogenic evolution, for example resistance in pests and bacteria, so it is wrong.

Final Answer:
Adaptive radiation means species branching out from one ancestor to many areas. This is option (A).