Evolution of Novel Phenotypes is a part of the VCE Biology area of study ‘How are Species Related?’ and subtopic ‘Determining Relatedness Between Species’. In this post, we look specifically at the development of differing phenotypes of the Galapagos Finches and African Cichlid Fish.
Evolution and Species
Over many generations, depending on their environment, a species may adapt differently (divergent evolution) producing two or more different species. Alternatively, if two different species adapt to similar environments, they may end up having similar traits (convergent evolution) for example whales and dolphins.
This video will go through some evolutionary relationships.
What About the Finches?
Watch this video to learn about the development of the varieties of finches.
David Attenborough visits the Galapagos Islands in this video.
How did the Cichlid Fish Evolve?
Watch this video to learn more!
Looking for more resources? Check out more of our VCE Biology resources here!
