Summary
Unrelated lineages evolve similar traits because they face similar selective pressures.
In depth
Unrelated organisms facing similar conditions evolve similar forms: sharks, ichthyosaurs and dolphins; New and Old World cacti and euphorbias; marsupial and placental moles.
It demonstrates the power of selection and the limited number of workable solutions.
Convergence shows that natural selection is a powerful and sometimes predictable force. Molecular convergence occurs too: antifreeze proteins evolved independently in Arctic and Antarctic fish, and echolocation genes such as prestin are similar in bats and dolphins. Mimicry (Batesian and Mullerian) is a related example in which species converge on warning colours.
Cases of convergence help biologists test whether traits are adaptations: if a feature evolves repeatedly under the same conditions, selection is likely. Stephen Jay Gould argued evolution is contingent (replay life and results differ), and Conway Morris emphasised convergence. Lenski's experiments show both.
Example: the Tasmanian tiger (a marsupial) looked remarkably like a wolf, but is far more distant from it than a dog is.
Frequently asked questions
What is Convergent Evolution?
Unrelated lineages evolve similar traits because they face similar selective pressures.
Which area of biology covers Convergent Evolution, and how advanced is it?
Convergent Evolution is one of the 53 topics in Evolution. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Adaptation, Analogous Structures, Neutral Theory.
Can you give an example of Convergent Evolution?
Echolocation evolved separately in bats and toothed whales, with a convergent change in the prestin gene.
What should I learn before Convergent Evolution?
Work through the Beginner topics in Evolution first, such as Evolution, Natural Selection, Charles Darwin, then return to Convergent Evolution. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Convergent Evolution?
The closest topics to Convergent Evolution are Adaptation, Analogous Structures, Neutral Theory, Divergent Evolution. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Convergent Evolution?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Convergent Evolution. To practise the whole of Evolution, use the Evolution quiz.
How is Convergent Evolution different from Adaptation?
Convergent Evolution: Unrelated lineages evolve similar traits because they face similar selective pressures. Adaptation: A heritable trait that improves an organism's survival and reproduction in its environment. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Convergent Evolution step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Adaptation and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Evolution quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.