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Convergent evolution is the term used to describe the phenomenon of similar traits occurring in groups or species that are not closely related. This usually occurs when unrelated groups develop a trait independently of one another due to similar evolutionary pressures. An example of convergent evolution is the presence of wings in birds and bats. Bats are a mammal and are not closely related to birds but both have wings to fill the same purpose, flight.
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BlakeExamples of similar features that evolved through convergent evolution include wings in birds and bats, camera-like eyes in vertebrates and cephalopods, and thorns in cacti and rose bushes. These traits evolved independently in different lineages in response to similar selective pressures, resulting in functional similarities despite genetic differences.
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What is the name of evolution that produces similar but distantly related organisms?
Convergent evolution, or convergence theory.
Which pair of organisms show convergent evolution?
Sharks (cartilaginous fish) and dolphins (mammals) exhibit convergent evolution in their similar streamlined body shapes, adaptations for swimming, and behaviors due to their shared aquatic lifestyle despite evolving from different lineages. Another example is the sugar glider (marsupial) and flying squirrel (rodent), where both have independently developed adaptations for gliding in different regions of the world.
What was the original name of a butterfly?
They were called butorflēoge, buttorflēoge, or buterflēoge in Old English, which evolved to buterflie, butturflye, or boterflye in Middle English, and finally butterfly in modern English. In German, there is a similar association with dairy products throughout the history of the word's evolution.
Why perfect phylogenetic classification is difficult to achieve?
Perfect phylogenetic classification is difficult to achieve due to horizontal gene transfer, where genes can be transferred between different species, blurring their evolutionary relationships. Additionally, convergent evolution can lead to similar traits evolving independently in different lineages, making it hard to accurately infer relationships based on traits alone. Lastly, the vast amount of genetic data available now can make it challenging to find a single perfect classification that accommodates all the genetic variations observed.
If two species have similar DNA what hypothesis is supported?
The hypothesis supported is that the two species share a common ancestor and have evolved from a common gene pool. This similarity in DNA suggests that they are closely related evolutionarily.
