What are divergent traits?

Divergent traits refer to characteristics that emerge in different species or populations as they adapt to varying environments or ecological niches. These traits arise through evolutionary processes, such as natural selection, where species diverge from a common ancestor and develop distinct features over time. For example, the beaks of finches on the Galápagos Islands exhibit divergent traits suited to their specific food sources. This divergence highlights how species can evolve differently based on their surroundings and ecological pressures.