Types of Evolution
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A series of free High School Biology Video Lessons.
Microevolution - Macroevolution
Microevolution is defined as changes within a species that aren't drastic enough to create an entirely new species. Changes that result in a new species are part of macroevolution. Often microevolution can lead to macroevolution as changes become more pronounced and two distinct species emerge. Both are caused by mutation, genetic drift, gene flow or natural selection.
The different scales of evolution.
Convergent Evolution
Convergent evolution, also called parallel evolution, is a type of evolution in which two unrelated species develop similar traits due to similar environments or selective pressures. These similar traits are called analogous traits. Though these species look alike, we cannot call them related because they descended from different ancestors.
How unrelated species acquire similar traits.
Divergent Evolution
Divergent evolution occurs when related species develop unique traits due to different environments or selective pressures. A classic example of divergent evolution is the Galapagos finch which Darwin discovered that in different environments, the finches' beaks adapted differently. The individual Galapagos finches looked so different from one another that he was surprised when he found that they were all related
How related species diverge.
Coevolution
Coevolution occurs when two species influence each other's evolution due to each exerting selective pressure on other. Examples of coevolution include bees - flowers, wolves - rabbits and HIV - humans.
How species influence each other's evolution.
More Lessons for Biology
Math Worksheets
A series of free High School Biology Video Lessons.
Microevolution - Macroevolution
Microevolution is defined as changes within a species that aren't drastic enough to create an entirely new species. Changes that result in a new species are part of macroevolution. Often microevolution can lead to macroevolution as changes become more pronounced and two distinct species emerge. Both are caused by mutation, genetic drift, gene flow or natural selection.
The different scales of evolution.
Convergent evolution, also called parallel evolution, is a type of evolution in which two unrelated species develop similar traits due to similar environments or selective pressures. These similar traits are called analogous traits. Though these species look alike, we cannot call them related because they descended from different ancestors.
How unrelated species acquire similar traits.
Divergent evolution occurs when related species develop unique traits due to different environments or selective pressures. A classic example of divergent evolution is the Galapagos finch which Darwin discovered that in different environments, the finches' beaks adapted differently. The individual Galapagos finches looked so different from one another that he was surprised when he found that they were all related
How related species diverge.
Coevolution occurs when two species influence each other's evolution due to each exerting selective pressure on other. Examples of coevolution include bees - flowers, wolves - rabbits and HIV - humans.
How species influence each other's evolution.
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