The importance of adaptive radiation in evolution lies in its role in increasing biodiversity. This process occurs when a single ancestral species rapidly diversifies into a wide variety of forms to exploit different ecological niches. For instance, the finches of the Galápagos Islands, studied by Charles Darwin, exemplify adaptive radiation, as they evolved distinct beak shapes to cater to diverse food sources. Adaptive radiation facilitates adaptation to varied environments, enhances survival rates, and promotes the emergence of new species. This evolutionary mechanism is critical for understanding how complex ecosystems develop and maintain their diversity.