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Convergent Evolution
Convergent Evolution
Convergent evolution occurs when different species occupy similar ecological niches and adapt in similar ways in response to similar selective pressures.
The animals shown at the right have developed similar shapes independently. Streamlined bodies work best in water environments!
Traits that arise through convergent evolution are referred to as 'analogous structures'.
They are contrasted with 'homologous structures', which have a common origin.
These animals have analogous structures.
"Homo" means "same."
This means that these structures were derived from the same common ancestor.
Homologous Structures
Homologous Structures
In contrast to convergent evolution where similar traits develop independently, homologous structures develop from a common ancestor.
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