Explain divergent evolution in detail. W | Class 12 Biology Chapter Evolution, Evolution NCERT Solutions

When two or more related species become more or more dissimilar and the similarity only occurs due to the same origin or same ancestors is known as divergent evolution; and this shows the homology. As the bones of forelimbs of whale, bat, cheetah and man are similar in structure and have the common ancestors (mammals) but performs different function like whales use their forelimbs as the flippers by which they control their speed while swimming; bat’s forelimb is modified for flying; cheetah uses forelimbs for capturing prey or running; and man use their forelimbs to perform various tasks, so they are known as homologous organs. Another good example is Darwin’s finches, which has now 80 species varieties which all are diverged from the single original species of finch. The driving force behind the divergent evolution is adaptations to the new habitat or environment.