AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Out of the 14 finches observed by Darwin, 13 were from the Galapagos island, and one was from the Cocos island. These finches evolved from a common ancestor to have different beaks well-suited for different types of food they feed on. Usually, long and pointed beaks are more fitted for seed and cactus feeders.

Detailed explanation-2: -Later, Darwin concluded that several birds from one species of finch had probably been blown by storm or otherwise separated to each of the islands from one island or from the mainland. The finches had to adapt to their new environments and food sources. They gradually evolved into different species.

Detailed explanation-3: -Disruptive selection is of particular significance in the history of evolutionary study, as it is involved in one of evolution’s “cardinal cases", namely the finch populations observed by Darwin in the Galápagos.

Detailed explanation-4: -Darwin’s finches are an example of speciation because they developed specialized beaks dependent on the type of food they ate, adapting to their food source and environment. Darwin’s finches are found exclusively on the Galapagos Islands.

Detailed explanation-5: -Darwin’s finches are the most famous example of divergent evolution. It is an aspect of adaptive radiation.