Biologists have found more than 500 species of fruit flies on the various Hawaiian Islands, all apparently descended from a single ancestor species. This example illustrates a. polyploidy. b. temporal isolation. c. adaptive radiation. d. sympatric speciation.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key concept: The question describes a scenario where multiple species have evolved from a single ancestor species in a specific geographic area.
2. Understand the terms: Review the definitions of each term provided in the options to determine which best fits the scenario described.
3. Analyze the scenario: Consider the geographic isolation of the Hawaiian Islands and how a single species could diversify into many different species in this environment.
4. Apply the concept of adaptive radiation: This is a process where organisms diversify rapidly into a multitude of new forms, particularly when a change in the environment makes new resources available, creates new challenges, or opens new environmental niches.
5. Conclude which option fits: Since the scenario involves the evolution of many new species from a single ancestor due to the diverse environments of the Hawaiian Islands, the concept of 'adaptive radiation' is the most applicable.