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Select the correct group/set of Australian Marsupials exhibiting adaptive radiation

Option: 1

Tasmanian wolf, Bobcat, Marsupial mole


Option: 2

Numbat, Spottted cuscus, Flying phalanger


Option: 3

Mole, Flying squirrel, Tasmanian tiger cat


Option: 4

Lemur, Anteater, Wolf


Answers (1)

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The correct option is Option 2) Numbat, Spotted cuscus, Flying phalanger.

Adaptive radiation refers to the diversification of a group of organisms into various ecological niches, resulting in the development of different species with specialized adaptations. In the case of Australian marsupials, there are several examples of adaptive radiation.

Numbat, Spotted cuscus, Flying phalanger: This option includes marsupials that have undergone adaptive radiation. The numbat is a small marsupial that feeds mainly on termites and has specialized adaptations for this diet. The spotted cuscus is a tree-dwelling marsupial that has adapted to life in the rainforest. The flying phalanger, also known as the sugar glider, is a marsupial that has evolved adaptations for gliding through the air.

Option 1)  is incorrect because Tasmanian wolf, Bobcat, Marsupial mole: This option includes species that are not examples of Australian marsupials. The Tasmanian wolf, also known as the thylacine, is extinct. The bobcat is not a marsupial but a small wild cat found in North America. The marsupial mole is native to Australia but is not considered an example of adaptive radiation.

Option 3) is incorrect because Mole, Flying squirrel, Tasmanian tiger cat: This option includes species that are not Australian marsupials. The mole is not a marsupial but a type of mammal found in various parts of the world. The flying squirrel is not native to Australia but is found in other regions. The Tasmanian tiger cat is not a recognized marsupial species.

Option 4) is incorrect because  Lemur, Anteater, Wolf: This option includes species that are not Australian marsupials. Lemurs are primates found in Madagascar, not Australia. Anteaters are found in Central and South America, and wolves are found in various parts of the world.

Therefore, the correct option is Option 2) Numbat, Spotted cuscus, Flying phalanger, as these species are examples of Australian marsupials that have undergone adaptive radiation.

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