Adaptive radiations may be promoted by all of the following except one. Which one? a. mass extinctions that result in vacant ecological niches b. colonization of an isolated region with few competitors c. a gradual change in climate d. a novel adaptation

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the concept of adaptive radiation, which refers to the process by which 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.
2. Analyze each option to determine if it could promote adaptive radiation: a) Mass extinctions can create vacant ecological niches, which may be filled by surviving species diversifying to occupy those niches. b) Colonization of an isolated region with few competitors can lead to adaptive radiation as the colonizing species diversifies to exploit different resources or niches in the new environment.
3. Continue analyzing the options: c) A gradual change in climate can lead to adaptive radiation if it significantly alters the environment, thereby creating new niches or challenges that drive diversification. d) A novel adaptation can provide a competitive advantage to a species, allowing it to exploit resources or niches that were previously inaccessible, potentially leading to adaptive radiation.
4. Determine which option is least likely to promote adaptive radiation by evaluating how directly each factor contributes to creating new niches, removing competitors, or providing new ways to exploit the environment.
5. Conclude that the option which does not directly lead to the creation of new niches, removal of competitors, or provide a new means to exploit the environment is the least likely to promote adaptive radiation.