Page - 139 - in The Origin of Species

CONVERGENCE OF CHARACTER 139 called, has likewise played a part. If two species, belonging to two distinct though allied genera, had both produced a large number of new and divergent forms, it is conceivable that these might approach each other so closely that they would have all to be classed under the same genus ; and thus the descendants of two distinct genera would converge into one. But it would in most cases be extremely rash to at- tribute to convergence a close and general similarity of struc- ture in the modified descendants of widely distinct forms. The shape of a crystal is determined solely by the molecular forces, and it is not surprising that dissimilar substances should sometimes assume the same form; but with organic beings we should bear in mind that the form of each depends on an infinitude of complex relations, namely on the varia- tions which have arisen, these being due to causes far too intricate to be followed out,—on the nature of the variations which have been preserved or selected, and this depends on the surrounding physical conditions, and in a still higher degree on the surrounding organisms with which each being has come into competition,—and lastly, on inheritance (in it- self a fluctuating element) from innumerable progenitors, all of which have had their forms determined through equally complex relations. It is incredible that the descendants of two organisms, which had originally differed in a marked manner, should ever afterwards converge so closely as to lead to a near approach to identity throughout their whole organ- isation. If this had occurred, we should meet with the same form, independently of genetic connection, recurring in widely separated geological formations ; and the balance of evidence is opposed to any such an admission. Mr. Watson has also objected that the continued action of natural selection, together with divergence of character, would tend to make an indefinite number of specific forms. As far as mere inorganic conditions are concerned, it seems probable that a sufficient numJier of species would soon become adapted to all considerable diversities of heat, moisture, &c. ; but I fully admit that the mutual relations of organic beings are more important ; and as the number of species in any country goes on increasing, the organic con- ditions of life must become more and more complex. Conse-