Final answer:
The Galápagos Islands are a group of volcanic islands that provided critical evidence for Darwin's theory of evolution through the example of adaptive radiation seen in finches. Their formation is due to volcanic activity over millions of years, and their diverse ecosystems make them a key location for the study of island biogeography and natural selection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Formation and Significance of the Galápagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands are a group of 16 volcanic islands situated 600 miles off the west coast of South America. The formation process of these islands involves volcanic activity, which over millions of years has resulted in the archipelago we see today. These islands are geographically positioned near the equator and have diverse climates and ecosystems.
Island Biogeography and Evolution
The concept of island biogeography is a perfect representation of the Galápagos Islands' significance. An example of this is the finches that Charles Darwin studied, which demonstrated adaptive radiation. The different finch species evolved from one common ancestor to fill various ecological niches. Darwin's theory of evolution was heavily influenced by these observations during his voyage on the HMS Beagle, and the islands have since been instrumental in our understanding of natural selection and speciation.