Question

The forelimbs of cats and lizards are used in walking; the forelimbs of whales are used in swimming, and the forelimbs of bats used in flying are an example of?

• A. Convergent evolution
• B. Adaptive radiation
• C. Homologous organs
• D. Analogous organs

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Homologous organs

The correct option is C.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. Homologous organs imply that similar origins have taken on various tasks across time and in response to changing needs.
2. Divergent evolution is responsible for homogeneous structures.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option A:

1. Convergent evolution is the development of comparable adaptive functional features in disparate groups of organisms.

Option B:

1. Adaptive radiation describes the process of speciation from a common ancestor that spreads to diverse geographical locations.
2. It usually occurs in remote geographic locations with diverse ecosystems.

Option D:

1. Organs with similar functions but distinct origins are referred to as analogous organs.
2. Butterfly and bat wings are physically distinct, yet they serve the same purpose.

Final Answer: The forelimbs of cats and lizards are used in walking; the forelimbs of whales are used in swimming, and the forelimbs of bats used in flying are an example of homologous organs.