Question

There is no closely related evolutionary relationship between terrestrial snakes and aquatic eels, inspite of the fact that they have a similar elongated morphology. The phenomenon which explains the above statement is known as

• A. Analogy
• B. Homology
• C. Speciation
• D. Divergent evolution
• E. Artificial selection

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Analogy

Convergent evolution i.e., development of similar structure in two distant organisms as a response to adaptation to same environmental condition leads to the formation of analogous organs. Analogous organs perform the similar function and have a similar appearance but have different basic structure and origin.

Homologous organs perform different functions; have the different appearance but share common basic structural plan and origin and are the result of divergent evolution.

Speciation lead to splitting of two species from existing one.

Artificial selection is not operative here.

Therefore, the correct answer is option A.