Homoplasy
Homoplasy (pronunciation: ho·mo·pla·sy, /ˈhɒməʊˌpleɪzi/) is a term used in the field of Biology and Genetics to describe a trait shared by two or more species that is not present in their common ancestor. The term is derived from the Greek words homos meaning "same" and plasis meaning "molding" or "formation".
Etymology
The term "Homoplasy" was first used in the late 19th century by British biologist William Bateson. It is derived from the Greek words homos meaning "same" and plasis meaning "molding" or "formation". The term was used to describe the phenomenon where different species evolve similar traits independently, often as a result of similar environmental pressures.
Types of Homoplasy
There are three main types of homoplasy: Convergent Evolution, Parallel Evolution, and Reversal Evolution.
- Convergent Evolution occurs when different species independently evolve similar traits or adaptations to similar environments.
- Parallel Evolution occurs when two related species evolve in similar ways for a long period of time in response to analogous environmental conditions.
- Reversal Evolution or 'Atavism' occurs when an organism re-evolves characteristics of its ancestors that had been lost in previous evolutionary stages.
Related Terms
- Analogy - Similarity in function and appearance, but not in origin or evolutionary path.
- Homology - Similarity in structure and position, indicating a common origin.
- Phylogenetics - The study of evolutionary relationships among species.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Homoplasy
- Wikipedia's article - Homoplasy
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