What does convergent evolution refer to?

Convergent evolution refers to the phenomenon where unrelated or distantly related species develop similar traits or adaptations due to similar environmental pressures or challenges they face. This process does not depend on shared ancestry but rather highlights how different organisms can evolve similar features when they occupy similar ecological niches or face alike selective pressures. For instance, the streamlined body shape of dolphins (which are mammals) and sharks (which are fish) is an example of convergent evolution, as both have adapted to life in a similar aquatic environment despite their different evolutionary backgrounds.

By recognizing that this phenomenon is about the development of similar traits in unrelated species as a response to similar environmental factors, it’s clear why this choice captures the essence of convergent evolution accurately. Other options involve concepts like divergence from common ancestors or traits developed in isolation, which do not align with the definition of convergent evolution.