Question

Explain how convergent evolution can result analogous traits.

A) Through shared common ancestry and genetic inheritance.

B) By the process of divergent evolution, where species become more similar over time.

C) Due to the independent evolution of similar traits in unrelated species facing similar environmental challenges.

D) Through mutations in a single gene that affect multiple species simultaneously.

Answer 1

Convergent evolution occurs when similar traits with the same function evolve in multiple species exposed to similar selection pressure. Mutations in a single gene can affect multiple species simultaneously, leading to the development of analogous traits. For example, insects and birds have independently evolved wings for flying due to similar selection pressure, despite not sharing a common ancestry.

Step-by-step explanation:

Convergent evolution occurs when similar traits with the same function evolve in multiple species exposed to similar selection pressure. One way this can happen is through mutations in a single gene that affect multiple species simultaneously. These mutations can cause similar adaptations to arise in different organisms, even if they do not share a common ancestry.

For example, consider the development of wings for flying. Insects and birds are two groups of organisms that have independently evolved the ability to fly. Despite not sharing a recent common ancestry, they both have wings because they were exposed to similar selection pressure for aerial mobility.

This demonstrates how convergent evolution can result in analogous traits. It shows that natural selection can produce similar adaptations in different organisms facing similar environmental challenges, even if those organisms do not share a recent common ancestry.