Question

Which of the following pair is incorrectly matched with respect to convergent evolution? Placental Mammals Marsupials

A.	Lemur	Spotted cuscus
B.	Flying squirrel	Flying phalanger
C.	Anteater	Numbat
D.	Bobcat	Tasmanian lion cat

Answer 1

Convergent evolution
Convergent evolution or adaptive convergence is a type of evolution where organisms develop organs that have similar functions but different structures. This type of evolution happens in two unrelated species that live in the same habitat.

Examples of convergent evolution
Marsupials and placental animals are different species, they have a different mode of reproduction but they have similar shape, locomotion and feeding habits. This is due to adaptive radiation.
Examples

• Lemurs (placental) and Marsupial Spotted Cuscus (Marsupial) have long tails and limbs that can help in the arboreal habitat.
• Flying squirrels (placental mammals) and the flying phalanger (marsupial) have a flap of skin along their sails that help them to glide as they are both arboreal.
• Anteater (placental) and numbat (marsupial) feed on termites and ants as a result both of them have long strictly tongues

Bobcat (placental) and Tasmanian tiger cats (marsupials) have similar body structures.

Final answer
D. Bobcat—Tasmanian lion cat