Dr. Evan's research

Question 1

define adaptive radiation

Answer 1

• diverse + closely related species that vary in useful trait
• triggered by ecological opportunity or biological innovation
• trait variation evolved in-situ (in one place)
• some adaptive radiations exhibit “species for species” matching” (eg lizards and not finches)
  (repeated evolution of ecotypes: niche physical characteristics)

Question 2

define in-situ diversification

Answer 2

“in one place”
diversified in one geographical location where the ancestor originated/landed

Question 3

define ecotypes

Answer 3

different physical characteristics in a species based on ecological niche

• evolved independently and repeatedly
• ancestors evolved to suit difference niche habitats, affecting phenotype

Question 4

define species for species matching

Answer 4

repeated evolution of ecotypes

Question 4

define species for species matching

Answer 4

repeated evolution of ecotypes
- do see it in lizards, but not finches on Galapagos islands

Question 5

difference between adaptive radiation and sympatric speciation

Answer 5

sympatric speciation: evolution in same habitat
adaptive radiation: evolution in different habitat
- ecological niches create distinct habitats

Question 6

connection between species diversity and habitat size

Answer 6

increase habitat size = increase species diversity

Question 7

explain how adaptive radiation is triggered

Answer 7

ecological variation
- species found open ecological niches

biological innovation
- biological changes that open up new ecological niches to species