NEET2026BiologyChapterActual
Which of the following pairs of structures represents the phenomenon of convergent evolution?
Options
- ASweet potato and potato
- BThorns of Bougainvillea and tendrils of Cucurbita
- CForelimbs of cheetah and humans
- DBrains of fishes and amphibians
Correct answer
A. Sweet potato and potato
Step-by-step solution
Convergent evolution is the process by which unrelated or distantly related organisms evolve similar body forms, coloration, organs, and adaptations. This results in analogous structures, which have different anatomical origins but perform similar functions. Sweet potato is a modified root, whereas potato is a modified stem. Both structures are modified for the storage of food. Since they have different origins but perform the same function, they are analogous structures and represent convergent evolution. Thorns o