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What evidence do we have that Darwin didn't realize how important what island each bird came from was?

A. Lack of detailed island-specific notes.
B. Initial confusion about species.
C. Delayed recognition of island endemism.
D. Focus on overall diversity.

User Mikejoh
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Final answer:

Darwin initially did not recognize that the finches were distinct species adapted to conditions on each specific island, evidenced by his initial confusion about species. This understanding came after detailed observation and comparisons of the birds' beak structures.

Step-by-step explanation:

The evidence that suggests Charles Darwin did not initially realize the importance of the island of origin for each bird during his time in the Galápagos is the fact he initially did not distinguish the finches as different species based on the islands they were from. This is evident in B. Initial confusion about species.

When Darwin first observed the Galápagos finches, he did not recognize them as separate species, as he was primarily focused on the scope of biodiversity he encountered. It was only after further study and comparison that he recognized the distinct beak adaptations and their island-specific variations that suggested each finch species had adapted to the local conditions of its particular island, leading him to formulate his ideas on adaptive radiation and natural selection.

User Grigione
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