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What features were studied by Darwin in the giant tortoise on the Galapagos Islands, and why were those modifications required?

Answer :

Charles Darwin studied the physical features of Galapagos tortoises, noticing adaptations like saddle-shaped and dome-shaped shells due to environmental differences on the islands, contributing to his theory of natural selection.

During Charles Darwin's visit to the Galapagos Islands, he observed notable differences in the physical features of giant tortoises. These differences were adaptations to their varying environment on different islands. For instance, some tortoises had saddle-shaped shells and long necks which allowed them to reach higher vegetation such as cacti, beneficial for survival on the drier islands. While those on islands with more vegetation had dome-shaped shells and shorter necks, since their food was lower to the ground.

Darwin's observations of tortoise shell shapes and neck lengths among Galapagos tortoises were critical in developing his theory of natural selection. The tortoises' features signified a correlation between their physical characteristics and their environments, providing evidence that species adapt to their habitats over time through evolutionary changes.

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