What is a characteristic of adaptive radiation?

Adaptive radiation refers to the rapid evolution of a variety of forms from a common ancestor, particularly when organisms adapt to different environments or ecological niches. In these scenarios, the common ancestor diversifies into numerous species that are each suited to their specific environments, leading to a wide range of morphological and behavioral adaptations. This process often occurs when a single lineage encounters new habitats or when mass extinctions open up ecological niches.

The other options presented do not accurately describe adaptive radiation. Stability in an ecosystem suggests a balance where species coexist without significant changes, which contrasts with the dynamic nature of adaptive radiation. Uniform evolution across species implies that species evolve similarly without diversification, which goes against the essence of adaptive radiation. Lastly, linear development of traits suggests a straightforward progression of characteristics, while in adaptive radiation, multiple lineages can evolve simultaneously and diverge in various ways. Thus, diversification from a common ancestor is the hallmark of this evolutionary process, highlighting its significance in understanding how species adapt and evolve over time.