What is divergent evolution?

Divergent evolution refers to the process in which two or more related species evolve different traits, often due to adapting to different environments or ecological niches. This evolutionary mechanism highlights how common ancestors can give rise to varied descendants as they adapt to diverse conditions over time.

In divergent evolution, the accumulation of differences between species can lead to speciation, where organisms that were once part of the same lineage evolve distinct characteristics that allow them to thrive in their specific habitats. Such adaptations can eventually lead to the emergence of new species that are better suited to their unique environments.

This concept is distinct from situations such as convergent evolution, where unrelated species develop similar adaptations in response to similar environmental challenges, or hybridization, which involves the merging of genetic material from two species. Therefore, understanding divergent evolution emphasizes the role of environmental pressures and genetic variation in shaping the diversity of life forms from common ancestry.