Question

Some DNA-DNA hybridization data place the giant panda in the bear family (Ursidae), but place the lesser panda in the raccoon family (Procyonidae). The similarity of body morphology of these two animals must therefore be due toa.inheritance of acquired characteristics.b.sexual selection.c.inheritance of shared derived characters.d.convergent evolution.e.possession of shared primitive characters.

Answer 1

d. convergent evolution

Step-by-step explanation:

Convergent evolution refers to the independent evolution of similar phenotypic/morphological traits in organisms that are not closely related (i.e., they are not monophyletic). Convergent evolution leads to the development of analogous structures, i.e., similar structures that have the same/similar purposes but were not present in the last common ancestor of these groups. A well-known example of convergent evolution is the wings of the butterfly and bat. Conversely, divergent evolution is a type of pattern of evolution that leads to the accumulation of phenotypic differences between closely related species/populations/individuals.