Patterns of Evolution

Evolution occurs in patterns. Patterns of evolution include: convergent evolution, divergent evolution, coevolution, speciation, extinction, gradualism, punctuated equilibrium Types of Patterns and their description. Match the word with it's description. coevolution Two or more species can evolve together if they have a beneficial symbiotic relationship. convergent evolution Describes evolution toward similar traits in unrelated species. divergent evolution / adaptive radiation Describes how species with a common ancestor, acquire enough variations in their traits that it leads to two distinct new species extinction Describes the elimination of a species from Earth. speciation Occurs when a group within a species separates from other members of its species and develops its own unique characteristics. punctuated equilibrium Long periods of stability interrupted by short bursts of rapid change. gradualism A slow and continuous accumulation of small changes over a long period. ExamplesRead each scenario and identify the pattern of evolution that occurred. Darwin’s finches evolved different beak shapes to adapt to various food sources on the Galápagos Islands. convergent evolution divergent evolution coevolution speciation Sharks (fish) and dolphins (mammals) have similar structures with similar functions with bodies for efficient swimming. They do not have common ancestors. convergent divergent coevolution speciation Flowers and their pollinators, such as hummingbirds evolving long beaks to match the shape of specific flowers. convergent divergent coevolution extinction The first marsupials in Australia diversified into kangaroos, koalas, bandicoots, and wombats, each filling a different ecological niche. divergent evolution / adaptive radiation extinction gradualism punctuated equilibrium Early elephant ancestors had smaller tusks, which gradually lengthened over time due to selection pressures like defense and digging for food. punctuated equilibrium speciation coevolution gradualism Around 540 million years ago, there was a sudden burst of diverse animal life, leading to the evolution of many modern animal groups. extinction gradualism convergent punctuated equilibrium Overhunting by humans, especially sailors and fur traders, caused the Steller’s Sea Cow to disappear from Earth. extinction gradualism speciation convergent Bacteria can remain unchanged for long periods, but resistant strains can evolve rapidly when exposed to antibiotics. convergent punctuated equilibrium coevolution gradualism Cheetahs evolved to be faster to catch gazelles, while gazelles evolved to be faster to escape. gradualism speciation coevolution divergent