What term refers to the adaptive resemblance between unrelated species?

The term that refers to the adaptive resemblance between unrelated species is convergence. This phenomenon occurs when different species independently evolve similar traits or adaptations, often as a result of facing similar environmental challenges or ecological niches. These adaptations can lead to physical similarities or similar behaviors despite the species not being closely related.

For example, both bats and birds have developed wings for flight, even though they belong to different evolutionary lineages. This process of convergent evolution highlights how natural selection can lead to similar solutions to the challenges posed by the environment, despite the lack of a shared ancestry.

Mimicry specifically refers to one species evolving to imitate the appearance or behavior of another species, often for protection or to gain some advantage, rather than being a general term for resemblance. Adaptation refers to the broader process by which a species becomes better suited to its environment, and mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both species benefit from the interaction.