Convergent Evolution vs Divergent Evolution | Shared Traits Explained

This is one of my favorite topics in evolution. Hit me up with any additional questions you have.

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Thanks for stopping by, today we are talking about convergent vs divergent evolution. This video was suggested by one of my subscribers, so here you go Necla, and if any of you have video suggestions, please throw them on the comments.

Let’s talk about divergent evolution first. In divergent evolution two or more distinct species share a common ancestor from which they diverged. A common example is the modern elephant and the wooly mammoth. They share a common ancestor and yet evolved into two different species. Another example is the dog, the wolf, and the fox. Again, they share a common ancestor yet evolved independently.

Now lets contrast this with convergent evolution. In convergent evolution two or more distinct species share traits not due to a common ancestor. Take birds, bats, and butterflies for example. All have wings that allow them to fly, but they don’t share a common ancestor with wings. So each one evolved to have wings independently. Evolution converged on a similar trait in vastly different species.

Let’s recap, divergent evolution is when descendents of a common ancestor evolve independently and uniquely, like the dog, wolf, and fox. While convergent evolution is when species share a trait not due to a common ancestor, such as birds, bats, and butterflies ability to fly.

And that’s it. Check out my video on analogous vs homologous structures to learn more on this topic, subscribe to keep up with all my newest videos.

I’ll catch you next time.