Which is a likely result of a mass extinction?
A) The creation of "empty niche spaces," which can stimulate radiation of surviving groups.
B) The elimination of non-beneficial alleles from gene pools.
C) The increase in the rate of new mutations in remaining species.
D) The decrease in the rate of new mutations in remaining species.
E) The introduction of mutations that have a greater than usual effect.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mass extinctions often result in the creation of "empty niche spaces" because many species are wiped out, leaving ecological roles unfilled. This can stimulate the adaptive radiation of surviving groups as they evolve to fill these newly available niches.

Which Is a Likely Result of a Mass Extinction