What does divergent evolution, also known as adaptive radiation, result in?

Divergent evolution, or adaptive radiation, occurs when a single ancestral species diversifies into multiple distinct species, each adapted to different environments or ecological niches. This process often happens when species colonize new habitats or face different selective pressures, leading to variations in traits that enhance their survival and reproduction in their specific contexts.

A relevant example of this is the finches observed by Charles Darwin in the Galápagos Islands, where different finch species evolved from a common ancestor to exploit different food sources, resulting in distinct beak shapes and sizes.

This concept encapsulates the idea that through processes like natural selection and environmental adaptation, one species can branch out into a variety of species, showcasing the diversity of life that arises from a shared genetic heritage. Thus, the statement reflects the core principle of divergent evolution effectively, highlighting its significance in the study of species formation and biodiversity.