AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Convergent evolution occurs when species occupy similar ecological niches and adapt in similar ways in response to similar selective pressures. Traits that arise through convergent evolution are referred to as ‘analogous structures’. They are contrasted with ‘homologous structures’, which have a common origin.

Detailed explanation-2: -Convergent evolution is the process by which two species develop similar features despite not sharing a recent common ancestor. Evolutionary biologists explain these similar characteristics as the product of natural selection.

Detailed explanation-3: -Homologous features Physical features shared due to evolutionary history (a common ancestor) are said to be homologous.

Detailed explanation-4: -Speciation occurs when a group within a species separates from other members of its species and develops its own unique characteristics. The demands of a different environment or the characteristics of the members of the new group will differentiate the new species from their ancestors.

Detailed explanation-5: -It is the independent evolution of features that are similar in species spanning over different eras. This evolution produces analogous structures having similar functions or forms. However, they are not seen in the last common ancestor of those units.