Discover the Evolution of Life on Galapagos Island
The Evolution of Life on Galapagos Island
Life on Galápagos Island evolved through natural selection: The statement that summarizes what happened to life on Galápagos Island is: "Life on Galápagos Island evolved through natural selection, with unique adaptations in species observed among different islands." This concept highlights the role of natural selection in shaping the biodiversity of the island.
Unique adaptations in species: On the Galápagos Islands, a variety of species such as finches, iguanas, and giant tortoises have developed distinct characteristics that are well-suited to their specific environments. This phenomenon is known as adaptive radiation, where one ancestral species diversifies into multiple new species to exploit different ecological niches.
Contribution to Darwin's theory: Charles Darwin visited the Galápagos Islands in 1835 and observed the unique wildlife found there. His observations of the variations in species among the different islands played a crucial role in the development of his theory of evolution by natural selection. Darwin's study of the finches on the islands, which had different beak shapes and sizes adapted for specific diets, provided evidence for the process of natural selection in action.
In conclusion, the evolution of life on Galápagos Island showcases the power of natural selection and the adaptation of species to diverse environments, contributing significantly to our understanding of evolution.