LIFE SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -The term divergent evolution is believed to have been first used by J. T. Gulick. Divergent evolution is commonly defined as what occurs when two groups of the same species evolve different traits within those groups in order to accommodate for differing environmental and social pressures.

Detailed explanation-2: -Definition. Divergent evolution represents the evolutionary pattern in which species sharing a common ancestry become more distinct due to differential selection pressure which gradually leads to speciation over an evolutionary time period.

Detailed explanation-3: -Allopatric speciation and peripatric speciation occur when the reproductive barrier is caused by a physical or geographical barrier, such as a river or mountain range. Alternatively, sympatric speciation and parapatric speciation take place within the same geographical area.

Detailed explanation-4: -Whereas convergent evolution involves unrelated species that develop similar characteristics over time, divergent evolution involves species with a common ancestor that change to become increasingly different over time.

Detailed explanation-5: -Cause of Speciation Divergent evolution occurs when a subgroup of a species evolves traits different from its ancestors. The trait usually sprung from selective pressures. Such pressures drive natural selection and compel organisms to evolve.