What did Darwin win the Royal Medal for in 1853?

Darwin was awarded the Royal Medal in 1853 for his extensive research on barnacles. This work involved a detailed classification and study of various barnacle species, which contributed significantly to the understanding of their structure and biology. His findings in this area showcased his meticulous observational skills and provided insight into evolutionary processes, even though they were not directly tied to his later, more famous theory of natural selection. The barnacle research reflected Darwin's broader interest in variation and adaptation within species, ultimately feeding into his evolutionary theories. This award marked an important recognition of his contributions to the field of natural history before he published his most famous works on evolution and natural selection.