Which type of evolution is represented by analogous organs?
Correct answer: D. Convergent evolution
- A. Divergent evolution
- B. Coevolution
- C. Parallel evolution
- D. Convergent evolution
Explanation
Analogous organs are a hallmark of convergent evolution. These organs arise when distantly related species independently develop similar traits to adapt to similar environmental pressures, despite not sharing a recent common ancestor. This is distinct from divergent evolution, which involves species with a common ancestor evolving differences due to varying selective pressures. Coevolution involves mutual evolutionary influences between interacting species, and parallel evolution involves similar traits developing in related species independently. Thus, convergent evolution best describes the development of analogous organs.
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About Evolution
Evolution describes heritable change in populations over generations through variation, natural selection and adaptation. Lamarckism explains inheritance of acquired characteristics, while Darwinism explains selection of favourable inherited variations; these historical explanations must not be confused with the modern genetic account of evolutionary change.
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