What is parallel evolution?

Study for the DAT Quantitative Reasoning Test with multiple choice questions and detailed explanations. Hone your skills and get ready for your exam!

Parallel evolution refers to the process where different species, which are not closely related, independently evolve similar traits or adaptations in response to similar environmental pressures. This phenomenon occurs when these species encounter similar challenges in their environments and, as a result, develop comparable solutions.

In the context of the provided choices, the identification of parallel evolution as involving species influenced by similar environmental pressures leading to similar changes accurately captures this concept. This scenario exemplifies how organisms can experience analogous evolutionary outcomes, despite not sharing a recent common ancestor, highlighting the impact of environmental factors on the evolution of distinct species.

The other selections describe related concepts but do not accurately define parallel evolution. While different species sharing a common trait due to common ancestors emphasizes shared heritage, and species diverging and developing similar traits points towards convergent evolution, they do not encapsulate the essence of parallel evolution. Furthermore, unique adaptations to isolated environments describe a different evolutionary mechanism altogether, which is not relevant to the concept of parallel evolution as outlined in your correct choice.

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