Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of convergent evolution?

Convergent evolution is characterized by the phenomenon where unrelated species evolve similar traits or adaptations in response to similar environmental pressures or challenges, leading to superficial resemblances between them. The correct answer highlights that convergent evolution is not primarily based on genetic similarities; in fact, the species involved often have very different genetic backgrounds.

In convergent evolution, instead of sharing a common ancestor that leads to shared genetic traits, organisms independently adapt to similar environments or ways of life, resulting in analogous structures—traits that serve similar functions but do not arise from a common evolutionary origin.

The other characteristics of convergent evolution emphasize its nature: it leads to superficial resemblances, features unrelated species evolving similar traits, and the influence of similar selection pressures shaping these traits. All of these attributes showcase the concept that convergent evolution primarily occurs due to environmental factors rather than genetic relationships.