NEETZoologyEvolution
Different structures evolving for the same function and hence having similarity is a result of habitat-driven selection of similar adaptive features in different groups of organisms. Identify the evolutionary phenomenon described above and select the correct pair of structures that exemplify it.
Options
- ADivergent evolution; Flippers of penguins and dolphins
- BConvergent evolution; Forelimbs of whales and bats
- CDivergent evolution; Thorns and tendrils of Bougainvillea and Cucurbita
- DConvergent evolution; Flippers of penguins and dolphins
Correct answer
D. Convergent evolution; Flippers of penguins and dolphins
Step-by-step solution
The phenomenon described is convergent evolution, where anatomically different structures evolve to perform the same function due to similar environmental pressures, resulting in analogous organs. Flippers of penguins (birds) and dolphins (mammals) are anatomically different but perform the similar function of swimming, thus representing analogous organs and convergent evolution. Forelimbs of whales and bats, as well as thorns and tendrils of Bougainvillea and Cucurbita, share a common anatomical plan but perform d