Evolution: Scientific theory explaining how all living things are related.
Evolutionary paths include divergent and convergent evolution.
These processes contribute to the biodiversity on Earth.
Divergent Evolution
Occurs when members of a species or closely related species evolve different traits.
Leads to new species, also known as speciation.
Common Ancestor: A species that two or more species evolved from.
Recent Common Ancestor: Indicates that the common ancestor lived relatively recently.
Example by Charles Darwin:
Galapagos Finches: Observed by Darwin, evolved into several species.
Different beak sizes adapted to different food sources.
All shared a recent common ancestor.
Convergent Evolution
Occurs when two unrelated species develop similar traits.
Happens because these species live in similar environments.
No recent common ancestor.
Example:
Grey Wolves (Asia) and Tasmanian Wolves: Not closely related but have similar traits due to similar environmental niches.
Comparison
Divergent Evolution: Leads to speciation, different traits in closely related species.
Convergent Evolution: Similar traits in unrelated species due to environmental similarities.
Examples
Divergent Evolution:
Charles Darwin’s finches on the Galapagos Islands.
Convergent Evolution:
Grey wolves and Tasmanian wolves.
Summary
Divergent and convergent evolution are two pathways of evolution that illustrate how species adapt and evolve over time, either by diverging into new species or by developing similar traits independently.