Question

The fossil record shows that the forelimbs of cats, dolphins, and bats have the same skeletal elements. These skeletal elements have evolved into different shapes and sizes based on their function. For example, the flipper of a dolphin is adapted for swimming and the wing of a bat is adapted for flying.

What do the similarities between the skeletal structures of these three species most likely indicate about their evolutionary history?
A.
These three species all evolved from a common flying ancestor.
B.
These three species are not related and do not share a common ancestor.
C.
These three species are distantly related and share a common ancestor.
D.
These three species are all descended from the same parent organism.

Answer 1

Answer: These three species have common ancestors and exhibit divergent evolution.

Step-by-step explanation:

Divergent evolution refers to the process of evolution of organisms in different directions from a common ancestor. Cats, dolphins,s and bats have common skeletal elements that perform different functions to make them better adapted to their habitat. It indicates that they share a common ancestor and have evolved in different directions to make themselves better adapted