The incredible diversity of species that we see daily at Londolozi never ceases to amaze me. Every one of these is unique in its own way, and fulfils a specific niche, creating ecosystems in which each species relies (whether directly or indirectly) on each other for survival. Where did all these species come from and how did they evolve over time to get to this point? I won’t dive too deeply into Natural Selection and Darwinism, but in this blog post, I intend on introducing you to two types of evolution that have been observed over many years.

It’s hard not to marvel at the uniqueness of many species around the world, the ostrich being no exception!

Convergent vs Divergent evolution:

Convergent and divergent evolution are two contrasting paths that species can take in response to environmental pressures. Convergent evolution occurs when unrelated species independently develop similar traits to adapt to similar ecological niches. This process highlights the power of natural selection in shaping form and function. On the other hand, divergent evolution involves species diverging from a common ancestor and evolving distinct characteristics to suit different environments or ecological roles. It showcases the remarkable adaptability and diversity of life on Earth, as species branch out and evolve unique traits over time.

Using examples to make sense of it all

I often find using examples to illustrate processes like these to be useful. There are examples of species from both branches of evolution that we see at Londolozi on a daily basis; Sunbirds and Hippos (and no, these are not the two related species…)

Sunbirds and Hummingbirds: A Tale of convergent evolution

These two bird families, inhabiting distant corners of the world, provide a great example of convergent evolution. Remember, convergent evolution refers to unrelated species independently evolving similar traits to adapt to comparable ecological niches. Each family of birds is geographically isolated, with sunbirds inhabiting Africa, Asia, and Australia, and hummingbirds being native to the Americas. It is this very geographic isolation that has fostered the development of divergent traits.

A male Scarlet-chested Sunbird. Sunbirds, like Hummingbirds, have evolved to display striking, colourful plumage to attract mates and defend territories in their respective habitats.

Although they share many characteristics, such as colourful plumage and unique flight patterns, their specialisation as nectar feeders best explains how these unrelated families have evolved over time to fulfil a specific ecological niche. They have both evolved slender, elongated beaks, perfectly crafted to reach deep into the intricate blooms of flowers. This remarkable and unique adaptation demonstrates how the specific niche of feeding on a flower’s nectar can be catered for by completely unrelated species from across the world.

Hummingbirds and sunbirds, such as this male White-bellied Sunbird, share the same adaptation of elongated, probing bills that allow them to effectively feed on nectar from various flowers.

Hippopotamuses and Whales: Two seemingly very different species illuminate the Saga of Divergent Evolution

In the depths of the oceans and the riverbanks of Africa, whales and hippopotamuses emerge as fascinating examples of divergent evolution. Each species has diverged from a common ancestor and gradually adapted to different environments and ecological niches.

Perfectly evolved to spend the majority of their time submerged in freshwater, hippos will generally only venture onto land to feed on grass

It is believed that whales and hippos share the same common ancestor, which was land-dwelling, some 54 million years ago. Both form part of the Artiodactyla, or ‘even-toed ungulate’ order. In the case of whales, natural selection favoured adaptations that allowed them to exploit the abundant resources found in the oceans. Their bodies became elongated and streamlined, their limbs transformed into powerful flippers, and their nostrils shifted to the top of their heads, evolving into blowholes. Hippos on the other hand diverged from this common ancestor towards the lush river systems of Africa. They adapted to living a semi-aquatic existence, with stocky bodies that keep them buoyant, stout limbs and webbed toes that allow for efficient movement underwater. Both whales and hippos have taken very different paths to fulfil their respective ecological niches.

Peak-a-boo! With eyes, ears and nostrils situated on the top of their heads, hippos can breathe, hear and make sense of their surroundings whilst remaining submerged.

Wrapping it up

Convergent and divergent evolution play harmonious but distinct roles and are very much responsible for a lot of the diversity of life on Earth. Sunbirds and hummingbirds illuminate the convergence of species from unrelated ancestors to fulfil ecological niches, transcending continents and coming together on shared adaptations. Whales and hippos, on the other hand, showcase how ecological niches have been fulfilled by different species that have diverged apart from a common ancestor. These stories remind us of the incredible adaptability and diversity that emerges through the interplay of genetics, environment, and time.