Can we predict fate? What does genomic convergence tell us about the predictability of evolution?

Abstract

The evolution of the genome leading to the emergence of advantageous traits is largely influenced by random processes. However, it has certain limitations that make it somewhat predictable.

Convergent evolution, here the repeated emergence of a trait in unrelated individuals, provides us with a good model for discovering these predictable aspects of evolution. This ability to at least partially predict the evolution of the genome is useful, among other things, in disease research or in breeding.

Keywords

• genomic convergence
• predictability
• evolution