Inhoudsopgave
What is the difference between convergent evolution and homoplasy?
Not surprisingly, this phenomenon is known as convergent evolution. For these two species, the “C” at the second position is not homologous (a similarity inherited from a common ancestor), but rather a homoplasy – a similarity that resulted from independent events on two lineages.
How does homoplasy arise?
Homoplasy can arise from both similar selection pressures acting on adapting species, and the effects of genetic drift . Homoplasy is the similarity in trait that is not due to a common ancestor. Most often, homoplasy is viewed as a similarity in morphological traits.
Can homoplasy be used to predict extraterrestrial evolution?
Recent studies have used homoplasy to predict the possibility and the path of extraterrestrial evolution. For example, Levin et al. (2017) suggest that the development of eye-like structures is highly likely, due to its numerous, independently evolved incidences on earth.
What are homoplasy mammals?
Homoplasy. These are mammals from different geographical regions and lineages, and have all independently evolved very similar burrowing characteristics (such as a cone-shaped heads and flat frontal claws) to live in a subterranean ecological niche .
What is the difference between convergent and parallel evolution?
Convergent evolution. Convergent evolution is similar to parallel evolution, which occurs when two independent species evolve in the same direction and thus independently acquire similar characteristics; for instance, gliding frogs have evolved in parallel from multiple types of tree frog .
What are some examples of convergent evolution in plants?
Many instances of convergent evolution are known in plants, including the repeated development of C 4 photosynthesis, seed dispersal by fleshy fruits adapted to be eaten by animals, and carnivory.