Patterns of Evolution & Speciation – Part 1 pp. 304-309
Convergent Evolution Occurs when different organisms that live in similar environments develop similar characteristics. The environment selects similar adaptations in unrelated species. Organisms develop analogous structures (same function, but different internal anatomy). Examples: - Bird wings/insect wings - Shark fins/dolphin fins
More examples: Placental Mammals: top row Marsupial Mammals: bottom row
Coevolution occurs when two or more species influence each other's evolution Types: Mutualistic Competitive
Types of interactions that can lead to coevolution:
Example of Mutualism Acacias & Ants: Acacias have nest sites and nectar for the ants Ants protect the acacia plant from herbivores, remove fungal spores, & attack shading plants
Example of Commensalism Mimicry – when one organism evolves to look like the other in order to benefit itself. The mimic benefits while the model is unaffected.
Divergent Evolution The process by which related organisms become less alike Organisms become adapted to different environmental conditions Caused by isolation of part of a population due to migration or geographic barriers
Also known as adaptive radiation. Can cause speciation Examples: Darwin’s Finches. Brown bears and polar bears
Divergent Evolution