Chapter 20 - Processes of Evolution - 20.2 - Mutation, Selection, Gene Flow, Genetic Drift, and Nonrandom Mating Result in Evolution - 20.2 Recap - Learning Outcomes - Page 434: 2

Heterotopy literally translates to "different place" and refers to the geographic isolation that may cause divergent evolution. In the case of Darwin's finches, the birds are separated by seas and live in different environments that may favor some phenotypes against others. Over the course of natural selection, the finches evolved to have variations in beak shapes and sizes that correspond to the food they eat on the separate islands.

Heterotopy literally translates to "different place" and refers to the geographic isolation that may cause divergent evolution. In the case of Darwin's finches, the birds are separated by seas and live in different environments that may favor some phenotypes against others. Over the course of natural selection, the finches evolved to have variations in beak shapes and sizes that correspond to the food they eat on the separate islands.