Where was Darwin most interested in studying species?

Darwin's interest in studying species was particularly focused on islands, notably during his voyage on the HMS Beagle to the Galápagos Islands. Islands often harbor unique species due to their isolation, which can lead to varied evolutionary paths that differ significantly from those on mainland ecosystems. This environment allowed Darwin to observe how species adapt to their surroundings and the impacts of natural selection over time. Notably, the distinct variations he observed among similar species on different islands contributed significantly to the development of his theories on evolution and natural selection.

In contrast, studying species on mountains, in urban areas, or in freshwater lakes does not provide the same level of insight into the processes of speciation and adaptation that can be clearly observed in island ecosystems. Therefore, the study of species on islands provided a critical foundation for Darwin's revolutionary ideas regarding the diversity of life and the mechanisms driving evolution.