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The process where unrelated species develop similar traits is known as convergent evolution. This phenomenon occurs when different species, often from distinct evolutionary backgrounds, adapt to similar environmental challenges or ecological niches and consequently evolve similar features or functions.

For instance, the wings of bats and birds exhibit structural similarities despite being derived from different ancestors. This is due to both species facing the challenge of flight in their respective environments, leading to the development of similar adaptations despite their separate evolutionary paths. This illustrates how environmental pressures can drive entirely different species to develop comparable traits, emphasizing the influence of natural selection in shaping the adaptations of organisms.

Other options represent different concepts in evolutionary biology. Divergent evolution pertains to related species evolving different traits as they adapt to different environments. Adaptive radiation refers to the rapid evolution of multiple new species from a common ancestor, often in response to new niches becoming available. Speciation is the process through which new distinct species arise from a common ancestor. Each of these concepts highlights various aspects of evolutionary change but does not capture the essence of how unrelated species can come to share similar adaptations through natural selection under similar selective pressures.