Convergent Evolution 3

Convergent evolution is the driven by natural selection, the mechanism for evolution. Evolution is the change in gene frequencies within a population. This requires individuals within a population to have different phenotypic expressions of traits. Some of these variations of traits grant more reproductive opportunities to those that possess them; for example they may be stronger, faster, or more attractive to the opposite sex. If those traits are then inherited by the offspring, they will …

…is examining. There is overwhelming evidence for convergence of single adaptations in unrelated species in response to a similar selective pressure. However, convergence on the macro level of ecological equivalents, requires convergence of complete suites of characteristics. Therefore, it appears less common due to simple statistical probabilities. Regardless, convergence occurs and provides a fascinating opportunity to observe the power of evolution by natural selection in determining the adaptations that we see in the world today.