Question

When two populations of animals which arose from a common ancestor become geographically separated, the populations become increasingly different from one another as each adapts independently to a suite of unique ecological conditions. These populations are said to be __________. Conversely, when two populations of animals, especially those arising from unrelated ancestors, become increasingly similar as they adapt to common (shared) ecological conditions, they are said to be __________

Answer 1

divergent; convergent

Step-by-step explanation:

The first populations of animals are said to have evolutionally diverged while the second populations are said to have evolutionally converged.

In divergent evolution, closely related animal populations accumulate differences (due to differences in their environments) so much so that they can become different species.

In convergent evolution, different animal populations evolve similar traits (due to similarities in their environment).

Hence, the correct words to fill the gaps would be divergent and convergent respectively.