Final answer:
The major concept of biological evolution is that present-day organisms evolved from earlier ones and have since diverged, leading to the biodiversity seen on Earth, largely through natural selection and speciation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major concept of the biological theory of evolution is option C: Present-day organisms on Earth developed from earlier ones and are distinctly different. This concept aligns with the unifying theory of biology, which states that all life has evolved and diversified from a common ancestor and continues to do so through the process known as evolution by natural selection. This evolutionary process, which involves mutation, speciation, and natural selection, leads to the rich diversity of life forms on Earth. The organisms that are best suited to their environment survive and reproduce, leading to the biodiversity we observe today.