Summary
Related species become increasingly different as they adapt to separate environments.
In depth
Populations from a common ancestor accumulate differences as they adapt to different niches, possibly leading to speciation. Homologous structures are the signature of divergence.
Divergence can be driven by selection in different environments or by drift in isolation, and shows in anatomy, behaviour and DNA. The red fox and arctic fox share an ancestor but differ in coat and body shape. Darwin's finches diversified from one ancestor into species with different beaks.
Homologous structures and sequence similarity show the history of divergence: the further back the common ancestor, the greater the difference. Divergence is a key part of speciation and adaptive radiation and builds the branching tree of life.
Key idea: divergent evolution produces different forms from a shared origin, whereas convergent evolution produces similar forms from different origins.
Frequently asked questions
What is Divergent Evolution?
Related species become increasingly different as they adapt to separate environments.
Which area of biology covers Divergent Evolution, and how advanced is it?
Divergent 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 Homologous Structures, Allopatric Speciation, Common Ancestry.
Can you give an example of Divergent Evolution?
The many forms of mammalian forelimbs from the ancestral pentadactyl limb.
What should I learn before Divergent Evolution?
Work through the Beginner topics in Evolution first, such as Evolution, Natural Selection, Charles Darwin, then return to Divergent Evolution. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Divergent Evolution?
The closest topics to Divergent Evolution are Homologous Structures, Allopatric Speciation, Common Ancestry, Adaptive Radiation. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Divergent Evolution?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Divergent Evolution. To practise the whole of Evolution, use the Evolution quiz.
How is Divergent Evolution different from Homologous Structures?
Divergent Evolution: Related species become increasingly different as they adapt to separate environments. Homologous Structures: Body parts with similar structure from a common ancestor but different functions, like a human arm and bat wing. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Divergent 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 Homologous Structures and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Evolution quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.