Question

Differentiate between the following:

Convergent evolution and divergent evolution

Answer 1

Convergent evolution:

1. The evolution of organisms from different ancestors who possess similarities due to adaptation to a particular environment.

Divergent evolution:

1. The evolution of organisms from a common ancestor has diverged to produce different species.

Convergent evolution	Divergent evolution
Analogous organs are produced due to convergent evolution	Homologous organs are produced due to divergent evolution
The species produced are genetically different	The species produced are genetically identical
An example includes wings in insects, birds, and bats	Examples include the flippers of a whale and the wings of a bat