Divergent Evolution

Evolution

Vs

Divergent

Kiwi

Emu

Divergent Evolution

Evolution vs Natural Selection

Evolution and Nautral Selection

KiwiGenus- ApteryxFamily- ApterygidaeHeight (avrg.)-45.7 cm (1.5 ft)Weight-38-45gmColour-Dark - Light-brown

EmuGenus- DromaiusFamily-DromaiidaeHeight (avrg.)-201 cm (6.6 ft)Weight-18-60kgColour-Brown - Grey-brown

AncestoryThere have been may debates whether the ancestor of these birds could fly or couldnt. New research suggests that the kiwi evolved from a bird and flew to New Zealand. Palentologist Trevor Worthy suggetsed that flightless birds didnt evolve form the extinct mao. Worthy says, 'Emus and Kiwis evolved from common ancestors, originating in Australia, and spread to New Zealand. The common ancestor was able to fly therefore the emu and kiwi may have been able to fly.' Instead, a flightless ancestor of the kiwi, dating back 20 million years, was discovered and found to be more closely related to the emu.

RatiteThe 'Ratite' species contain all flightless birds under its heading. Nearly all ratites live in the southern hemisphere. Their original home was thought to be Gondwana the ancient super continent. All ratites shared a common flightless ancestor. Todays species are alot different as they dispersed and evolved through geographical isolation. Some common features between the ratites are that they are flightless, they blend in with their environment have have various high attunded senses.

Species Forming Through Divergent EvolutionNumerous species have evolved through the process of divergent evolution. Through divergent evolution, old species evolve into new species due to many reasons. Some bieng; selective advantages, inheritance of advantageous variations, changes in physical and chemical environment and competition for resources. As mentioned in the clips, selective advantage and inheritance are due to the environment and predatation. Changes in physical environmet may cause changes like; colour of fur/feathers, length of beak, sense change and other minute changes. Where as, competition for resources maybe change various characteristics such as diet or habitat.