What is divergent evolution?

Divergent evolution refers to the process by which a single ancestral species evolves into two or more distinct species, adapting to different environments or ecological niches over time. This process often occurs due to geographical, environmental, or genetic factors that lead populations to develop unique characteristics as they adapt to their specific surroundings.

In the context of divergent evolution, the two or more descendant species can exhibit significant differences from one another despite having a common ancestor. For example, the evolution of finch species on the Galápagos Islands, which adapted to different food sources and environmental conditions, is a classic example of divergent evolution. Each species evolved unique beak shapes suited for their specific diets, showcasing how one ancestral species can lead to a variety of adaptations in response to differing pressures.

The other options describe different concepts in evolution. One option pertains to convergent evolution, where unrelated species develop similar traits, while others discuss co-evolution, where two or more species evolve in response to each other, and the concept of rapid evolution without focusing specifically on lineage splitting.