Genetic divergence

The divergence (from Latin di = apart, Vergere = tend ), is a form of speciation. It is the formation of new species, with one ancestral species into two or more coexisting sister species splits. Several such events lead to a tribal branch that cladogenesis ( from Greek klados = branch ) is called.

In contrast to the convergence of two initially identically shaped structures similar or identical organisms develop in different ways due to different evolutionary factors and individually adapted to their new, mutually different living conditions.

A popular example is the bone structure in mammals: Depending on the living and environmental conditions, especially the bones of the extremities have adapted to the circumstances. Thus, the metacarpal bone of a horse are bent upwards, the horse runs on the middle three fingers, little finger and thumb are regressed. Still, it is the basic structure of the bone structure of mammals (upper arm, forearm, wrist, metacarpals, fingers) understand.

Similarities between organisms that are based on divergent development are referred to as homology.

• Evolution