Divergent+Evolution

 Divergent evolution is when members of a species are compared after they have taken a different

path in evolution. Many traits may be added to the original structure to help the organism adapt or

evolve. The traits may also change the organism completely(1). If there is enough pressure selectively

placed on an organism, a variety of traits adaptive traits may appear. Divergent evolution leads to the

 creation of a new species. This is also called speciation. An example of divergent evolution is the foot

of a human compared to the foot of a monkey. Even though humans and monkeys share a common

ancestry and are genetically similar, the human foot has evolved from the primate one significantly.

Humans don't have the need to swing from trees, while primates don't have the need to walk upright,

which requires changes in the foot to create better balance and speed. Even though monkeys and

primates are similar their habitats require different traits to help them survive(3).



(1). http://evolution.suite101.com/article.cfm/the_patterns_of_evolution

(2).http://science.jrank.org/pages/2609/Evolution-Divergent.html

(3). http://www.bigfootencounters.com/images/anthropoid_feet.jpg

(4). http://animals.timduru.org/dirlist/monkey/Drawing-CuteSpiderMonkey.jpg

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