Molecular Convergence
Companies can converge on the same functional outcomes through different implementation paths.
Convergence occurs not only at morphological and behavioral levels but also at molecular levels - different genetic mutations producing the same functional outcome. Echolocating bats and dolphins independently accumulated similar amino acid substitutions in the Prestin gene (involved in high-frequency hearing), despite being separated by 100+ million years of evolution.
Human populations at high altitude show varying degrees of molecular convergence: Tibetans evolved mutations in EPAS1 and EGLN1, Andeans evolved increased EPO and hemoglobin concentration, Ethiopians evolved through unclear mechanisms. All three converged on surviving hypoxia but via different genetic routes. This illustrates that functional convergence can occur without genetic convergence.
Business Application of Molecular Convergence
Companies can converge on the same functional outcomes through different implementation paths. Teladoc and Ping An Good Doctor both provide on-demand telehealth, but Ping An uses more AI while Teladoc emphasizes human physicians. The convergence is at the business model level, not the technology level.