Which species is a classic example of adaptive radiation?

Darwin's finches are a classic example of adaptive radiation because they illustrate how a single ancestral species can diversify into multiple distinct species, each adapted to different ecological niches. In the case of Darwin's finches, they evolved from a common ancestor that arrived on the Galápagos Islands. Over time, these finches adapted to the various available food sources and environmental conditions of the islands, leading to a range of beak shapes, sizes, and feeding behaviors that suit their specific dietary needs, such as eating seeds, insects, or flowers.

This process of adaptive radiation demonstrates the principles of natural selection and speciation, as the finches have had to adapt to the diverse habitats and challenges presented by their environment. Each species has developed unique adaptations that enhance their survival and reproductive success in their respective niches. The striking diversity in morphology and behavior among the finches is a clear manifestation of how a group can evolve rapidly to occupy different roles within an ecosystem.