2024 EvolutionConvergent Evolution - Analogous Structures Medium Question 11 of 143 in Evolution

The flippers of the Penguins and Dolphins are the example of the

A Convergent evolution
B Divergent evolution
C Adaptive radiation
D Natural selection

The answer is A.

Solution

Flippers of penguins (birds) and dolphins (mammals) perform similar functions but are anatomically different in origin – they are analogous structures. Analogous structures are a result of convergent evolution: different structures evolving for the same function and hence having similarities.

Concept Flippers of unrelated aquatic animals as analogous structures

Evolution in past papers

143 questions from this chapter have appeared across 27 exam years.