Question

Sharks and dolphins are a good example of

• A. convergent evolution
• B. divergent evolution
• C. adaptive radiation
• D. parallel evolution

Answer 1

The correct option is A convergent evolution

Convergent evolution is the type of evolution in which two unrelated groups of organisms develop similar features, mostly as a result of having to adapt to similar habitats. Sharks and dolphins are both adapted to live in the aquatic environment in spite of being unrelated groups (the shark being a fish, and the dolphin being a mammal). As the name indicates, these unrelated organisms “converge” towards similar patterns of evolution.