Thinking of the examples in your book of adaptive radiation (Galapagos finches, for one), in which of the following environments might you be most likely to find adaptive radiation?
A) among houseflies living in a garbage dump
B) fruit flies that feed on different yeast strains specific to different species of cacti in the desert
C) in earthworms feeding on detritus
D) among insects that are generalist feeders

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Adaptive radiation is more likely in environments where there are diverse niches or resources that can be exploited differently, leading to the evolution of distinct species. In the case of fruit flies feeding on different yeast strains specific to different species of cacti in the desert, the specialization on different food sources provides a clear pathway for adaptive radiation, as each fly population adapts to its specific food source.

Thinking of the Examples in Your Book of Adaptive Radiation