Which of the following is considered an example of adaptive radiation in mammals following the extinction of the dinosaurs?

Question

Which of the following is considered an example of adaptive radiation in mammals following the extinction of the dinosaurs?

I) Evolution of primates from early mammalian ancestors.

II) Diversification of ungulates to fill various ecological niches.

III) Development of marine mammals like whales and dolphins from land-dwelling ancestors.

IV) Evolution of bats from primitive insectivorous mammals.

1. A. I and III are correct.
2. B. II and IV are correct.
3. C. I, III, and IV are correct.
4. D. II, III, and IV are correct. (Correct answer)

Correct Answer

Option D — II, III, and IV are correct.

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is II, III, and IV are correct..

Key Points

• Ungulates diversifying into ecological niches (II), whales/dolphins evolving from land mammals (III), and bats evolving from insectivores (IV) are classic examples of adaptive radiation post-dinosaur extinction.
• Primate evolution (I) is less directly tied to adaptive radiation in the same context.