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Multiple Choice
During his trip on the HMS Beagle, Darwin found that ______.
A
all species on different islands were genetically identical
B
the fossil record provided no evidence for change over time
C
species on the Galápagos Islands had unique adaptations not seen elsewhere
D
natural selection did not influence the traits of organisms
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context: Charles Darwin's voyage on the HMS Beagle was pivotal in developing his theory of evolution. During this journey, he observed various species and their adaptations, particularly on the Galápagos Islands.
Clarify the concept of 'unique adaptations': Adaptations are traits that enhance an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment. Darwin noticed that species on the Galápagos Islands had traits suited to their specific environments, which were not found in species elsewhere.
Relate this observation to natural selection: Darwin proposed that natural selection is the process by which organisms with favorable traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing those traits to the next generation. This explains the unique adaptations he observed.
Eliminate incorrect options: Review each statement in the problem. For example, 'all species on different islands were genetically identical' is incorrect because Darwin observed variation among species on different islands. Similarly, 'the fossil record provided no evidence for change over time' contradicts Darwin's findings, as fossils showed evidence of gradual changes in species.
Conclude with the correct answer: Based on Darwin's observations, the correct statement is that 'species on the Galápagos Islands had unique adaptations not seen elsewhere,' which aligns with his theory of evolution by natural selection.