The mass extinction at the end of the Ordovician set the stage for:
A) more species to go extinct.
B) groups of organisms to diversify.
C) groups of organisms to withdraw from previous habitats.
D) groups of organisms to repopulate abandoned niches.
E) groups of organisms to diversify AND repopulate abandoned niches.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mass extinction at the end of the Ordovician period led to a significant reduction in biodiversity, which in turn provided evolutionary opportunities for the surviving species. These species were able to diversify and adapt to new or previously occupied niches that were left vacant by the extinction event. This process of diversification and repopulation of abandoned niches is a common pattern observed after mass extinction events.

The Mass Extinction at the End of the Ordovician Set