Developmental Biology
Convergent evolution is the process where organisms from different evolutionary backgrounds develop similar traits or adaptations as a result of facing similar environmental challenges. This phenomenon highlights how distinct species can evolve in similar ways when they occupy similar niches or adapt to similar conditions, leading to analogous structures and functions despite their different ancestry. Understanding convergent evolution helps to illuminate the roles of genetics and developmental processes in shaping body plans and overall organismal diversity.
congrats on reading the definition of convergent evolution. now let's actually learn it.