Final answer:
Divergent evolution, or adaptive radiation, is a process in evolutionary biology where from a common ancestor, multiple species evolve to adapt to different environments, contributing to biodiversity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Divergent evolution, also known as adaptive radiation, describes the process where a single species diversifies into multiple species, each adapting to different niches or environments from a common ancestor. This phenomenon leads to an increase in biodiversity as new species evolve distinct characteristics to adapt to varied conditions. Adaptive radiation is significant in understanding the evolutionary biology of organisms, and it is not limited to mammals, nor does it refer to convergent evolution.
Examples of adaptive radiation can be found in island ecosystems, such as the Hawaiian Islands, where geographical isolation provides the perfect context for species to diverge and adapt to distinct habitats. The Hawaiian honeycreeper is a quintessential example of how from one founder species, numerous species have evolved, each with unique adaptations.