Patterns of Evolution

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What is convergent evolution?

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Convergent evolution is the process where unrelated organisms develop similar traits or adaptations due to similar environmental pressures. Example: Ostriches and giraffes both have elongated necks to reach high food.

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What is divergent evolution?

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Divergent evolution occurs when related species evolve different traits or adaptations, often due to different environments. Example: The kit fox and red fox have different ear sizes and fur colors based on their habitats.

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What is coevolution?

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Coevolution is the process where two or more species influence each other's evolution. Example: Pollinators and flowering plants often evolve together.

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What is punctuated equilibrium?

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Punctuated equilibrium is a pattern of evolution characterized by long periods of stability interrupted by short bursts of significant change.

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What is gradualism?

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Gradualism is the theory that evolution occurs slowly and steadily over long periods of time.

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What is an example of convergent evolution?

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An example of convergent evolution is the development of wings in birds, bats, and pterosaurs, which are unrelated but adapted to flying.

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What is an example of divergent evolution?

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An example of divergent evolution is the different beak types of Darwin's finches, which evolved from a common ancestor based on available food sources.

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What is adaptive radiation?

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Adaptive radiation is the rapid evolution of diversely adapted species from a common ancestor in response to new environments.

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What is speciation?

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Speciation is the process by which new species arise from existing species, often due to genetic divergence.

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What role does natural selection play in evolution?

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Natural selection is the process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.