The proliferation of a large number of descendant species from a single ancestor is known as
A) cryptic speciation.
B) the speciation rate.
C) an evolutionary radiation.
D) a lek.
E) sexual selection.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An evolutionary radiation is the phenomenon in which a single ancestor gives rise to a large number of descendant species, often in a relatively short amount of time. This occurs when a population rapidly adapts to diverse environmental conditions or niches, leading to the development of many new species that are adapted to specific ecological roles. It is also known as adaptive radiation.

The Proliferation of a Large Number of Descendant Species from a Single