Mammals were few in number and species until the dinosaurs became extinct 65 mya.Mammals then rapidly evolved into new forms that occupied niches that dinosaurs had occupied.This process is called adaptive radiation and relates to the concept of
A)trophic law.
B)habitat bifurcation.
C)niche rules.
D)competitive exclusion.
E)parasitism.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Adaptive radiation occurs when a species rapidly evolves into new forms to occupy different ecological niches, often after a competitor, like the dinosaurs, is removed. This relates to the concept of competitive exclusion, where the absence of competition allows for diversification.

Mammals Were Few in Number and Species Until the Dinosaurs