What observations did Charles Darwin make about finches in the Galápagos Islands that contributed to his theory of natural selection?

• A. The finches were all identical in appearance and behavior.
• B. The finches migrated seasonally between islands.
• C. The finches were the only birds present on the islands.
• D. The finches had different beak shapes adapted to their specific diets.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the context of Darwin's observations in the Galápagos Islands. Darwin studied various species, including finches, to understand how they adapted to their environment.
2. Recognize that Darwin observed differences among finch populations on different islands. These differences were primarily in their beak shapes and sizes.
3. Consider the significance of beak variations. Darwin noted that these variations were adaptations to the specific diets available on each island, such as seeds, insects, or flowers.
4. Connect these observations to the concept of natural selection. Darwin proposed that finches with beak shapes best suited to their environment were more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their traits to the next generation.
5. Conclude that these observations of finch beak diversity and adaptation were crucial in forming Darwin's theory of natural selection, illustrating how species evolve over time based on environmental pressures.