What is one major outcome of natural selection?

Natural selection plays a pivotal role in shaping the biodiversity of species within an ecosystem. One of the major outcomes of natural selection is the enhancement of variation within populations. This process occurs as individuals within a species exhibit different traits, and those traits that confer a survival or reproductive advantage are more likely to be passed on to future generations. Over time, as these advantageous traits accumulate and are selected for, populations can diverge and adapt to varying environmental conditions, leading to the emergence of new species and ultimately increasing biodiversity.

By favoring traits that enhance survival and reproductive success, natural selection promotes a wider range of adaptations among organisms, which can lead to the formation of new niches and further evolutionary opportunities. This dynamic contributes to the complexity and richness of life on Earth, fostering diverse biological communities.