Convergent Evolution vs. parallel evolution

[Kal-El]

I know the difference between convergent evolution and divergent evolution. But what is the difference between convergent evolution and parallel evolution?

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[Kal-El]

does anyone know?

 

[bgreet]

I thought they were very similar?

 

[Psycho Doctor]

don't ask me; i only believe in creation... 😀

 

[TekkenDanser]

Convergent evolution and parallel evolution do seem very similar, but they are each distinct as is divergent evolution. Three separate types. The main difference between the first two is the origin. Convergent evolution begins with organisms that are NOT closely related. Parallel evolution begins with organisms that are related. In both cases, they evolve similar characteristics in response to analogous environmental selection pressures. I can give you an example of convergent evolution--wings of insects vs. wings of birds--but someone else will have to give you a manifestation of parallel evolution (I can't think of one at the moment).

Others, feel free to correct/modify/elaborate on my response.

 

[MEG@COOL]

Convergent evolution and parallel evolution do seem very similar, but they are each distinct as is divergent evolution. Three separate types. The main difference between the first two is the origin. Convergent evolution begins with organisms that are NOT closely related. Parallel evolution begins with organisms that are related. In both cases, they evolve similar characteristics in response to analogous environmental selection pressures. I can give you an example of convergent evolution--wings of insects vs. wings of birds--but someone else will have to give you a manifestation of parallel evolution (I can't think of one at the moment).

Others, feel free to correct/modify/elaborate on my response.

Parallel could be the ancestor of many modern felines... All have similar characteristics and are found throughout the world in habitats condusive to their evolution. Some other examples could probably be found by examining various animals that branched off to a certain extent but remained similar after the split of continents.