Research on the finches native to the Galapagos Islands by Charles Darwin - Essay Example

This research study combined both qualitative and quantitative measures in order to gather data in order to support the concept of allopatric differentiation through the use of genetic analysis, environmental exposure, and behavioral observations. When Darwin was originally studying the species, he hypothesized that at one point there was a singular ancestral specie of finch that were spread out over the island chains through adaptive radiation. As the result of genetic mutation and diversification of the environment, different subspecies of finches developed in order to become adapted to that environment.

Due to the fact that there are numerous species of finches that inhabit this isolated island chain, the specifics of taxonomic and evolutionary research have not been conducted. The researchers collected a wide spectral range of data regarding the differences between the species in order to be compared. One of the sets of data involved the recording of the sonic sounds that are created by each distinct species of finch for communication. These vocal patterns were then analyzed by frequency and pitch in order to determine what characteristics were similar and which weren’t for showing evolutionary progress. . In order to conclude whether there was any significance or validity to the study, statistical tests were used to determine the trends in the data.

Some of the results showed that there was no statistical significance such as morphological traits, however there was statistical significance in the analysis of the sonic and genetic factors. The study that was conducted had a thorough way of exploring many of the different features that could impact allopatric differentiation of the species. The reason that finches are such a popular tool for biological study is because they a model organism in biology. This means that the things that are studied about the organism serve as a good model not only for just the study, but can be applied to a broad range of organisms.

They are also good because they are a unique species that is native only to the Galapagos Islands, which helps control some diversity factors that could be seen biologically, behaviorally, etc. The scientists took into account not only the possible genetic factors that played a role, but also the role in which the environment played. The wealth and range of the types of data gathered allows the scientists to look on multiple fronts in regards to evolution. One of the problems with the study is that many of the variables that they are looking for cannot be controlled very well and some of the data was only the result of naturalistic observation.

Therefore, it would be very difficult for scientists to replicate the studies in a lab for closer examination, lowering the internal validity. In order to gather more data on the study, the scientists should conduct a controlled longitudinal study in order to see how the finches could change over time or see if interbreeding within the populations occur