What characterizes adaptive radiation?

Adaptive radiation is characterized by rapid diversification into various forms for adaptation. This phenomenon typically occurs when a single ancestral species encounters a variety of ecological niches, leading to the evolution of different species that are each adapted to their specific environments. This diversification often happens in a relatively short timeframe, especially after events such as mass extinctions or the colonization of new habitats, where various opportunities for adaptation present themselves.

By rapidly evolving different traits, these new species can exploit various resources, thereby decreasing competition among them. This process demonstrates how natural selection can drive the evolution of diverse adaptations from a common ancestor, allowing species to thrive in different ecological roles or niches.