Question

When more than one adaptive radiation appeared to have occured in an isolated geographical area. it is called ?

• A. Divergent evolution
• B. Convergent evolution
• C. Saltation
• D. Anthropogenic evolution

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Adaptive radiation refers to an evolutionary process in which different species evolve from a common ancestor, on inhabiting new areas as they successfully adapt to their environment; while convergent evolution is an evolutionary process in which different structures of different species are evolved for the same function. Hence during adaptive radiation, the changes are determined by the environment. The organism evolves to survive in a particular environment. Therefore, if two different adaptive radiation occurs in an area, then it is most likely that both the evolved species will have similar adaptations to survive in that particular area. Hence, they will develop similar structures to perform similar functions.

So, the correct option is 'Convergent Evolution'