Explain divergent evolution in detail. What is the driving force behind it?

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) Divergent evolution is a process where related species evolve different traits to adapt to different environmental pressures or functional requirements.
$1$. Example: The forelimbs of whales,bats,cheetahs,and humans (all mammals) share a similar anatomical pattern of bones,including the humerus,radius,ulna,carpals,metacarpals,and phalanges.
$2$. Despite having the same ancestral structural plan,these forelimbs have evolved to perform different functions,such as swimming,flying,running,or grasping.
$3$. This phenomenon is known as homology,where structures are derived from a common ancestor but diverge in function.
$4$. The driving force behind divergent evolution is adaptive radiation,where organisms diversify from an ancestral species into a multitude of new forms to exploit different ecological niches.

Explore More

Similar Questions

Adaptive radiation refers to ..........

Adaptive radiation refers to

The finches of Galapagos islands provide evidence in favor of:

Which scientist explained adaptive radiation from his study on Galapagos Island?

What is common among whales, seals, and sharks?

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo