Which of the following are examples of adaptive radiation?

(a)    Evolution of forelimbs of whales, bats and cheetah

(b)    Evolution of tubers in potato and sweet potato

(c)    Evolution of wings in birds, bats and insects

(d)    Evolution of beaks in Darwin’s finches

(e)    Evolution of eyes in octopus and man

This process of evolution of different species in a given geographical area starting from a point and literally radiating to other areas of geography (habitats) is called adaptive radiation. Darwin’s finches represent one of the best examples of this phenomenon. From the original seed-eating features, many other forms with altered beaks arose, enabling them to become insectivorous and vegetarian finches.

Forelimbs of whales, bats and cheetah share similarities in the pattern of bones. They evolved along different directions due to adaptations to different functions. This can also be considered as an example for adaptive radiation.

The evolution of tubers in potato and sweet potato and the evolution of eyes in octopus and man are examples of convergent evolution.