Question

Some molecular data place the giant panda in the bear family (Ursidae) but place the lesser panda in the raccoon family (Procyonidae). If the molecular data best reflect the evolutionary history of these two groups, then the morphological similarities of these two species is most likely due to _____. possession of analogous (convergent) traits possession of shared primitive characters the inheritance of acquired characteristics sexual selection.

Answer 1

Possession of analogous (convergent) traits.

Step-by-step explanation:

Analogous structures are similar structures that evolved independently in two living organisms to serve the same purpose.

The term “analogous structures” comes from the root word “analogy,” which is a device in the English language where two different things on a basis of their similarities.

Analogous structures are examples of convergent evolution, where two organisms separately have to solve the same evolutionary problem – such as staying hidden, flying, swimming, or conserving water – in similar ways. The result is similar body structures that developed independently.

In the case of analogous structures, the structures are not the same, and were not inherited from the same ancestor. But they look similar and serve a similar purpose.