parallel evolution

noun

1. the independent development of closely corresponding adaptive features in two or more groups of organisms that occupy different but equivalent habitats, as marsupial mammals in Australia and placental mammals on other continents.

Word History and Origins

Origin of parallel evolution¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

Likewise that knightly virtue, love of woman, displays a parallel evolution, being part of the chivalric whole.

From Project Gutenberg

Parallel evolution accounted for the resemblance, like causes producing like results.

From Project Gutenberg

This is simply the extension of the theory of parallel evolution to a cosmic scale.

From Project Gutenberg

There were resemblances, explicable as the result of parallel evolution.

From Project Gutenberg

But horns and hoofs will appear in any system of parallel evolution.

From Project Gutenberg