Definitions

1. noun

A similarity of form or structure in different species that is not due to a common ancestry, but has been acquired independently through different evolutionary pathways.

“The discovery of homoplasis in the wing structures of different bird species led to a re-evaluation of their evolutionary history.”

2. noun

A similarity in the morphology or structure of different species, resulting from convergent evolution or adaptation to similar environments.

“The homoplasis between the shark’s dorsal fin and the dolphin’s dorsal fin is an example of convergent evolution.”