Question

Which of these are examples of evolution by anthropogenic action?
(i) Adaptive radiation of marsupials of Australia.
(ii) Appearance of antibiotic resistant microbes.
(iii) Evolution of finches in Galapagos islands.
(iv) Appearance of dark winged moth in England during post industrialisation period.
(v) Convergent evolution of placental mammals in Australia.

• A. (i) and (ii)
• B. (v) only
• C. (ii) only
• D. (ii) and (iv) only
• E. (iii) and (v) only

Answer 1

The correct option is D (ii) and (iv) only

• Adaptive radiation of marsupials in Australia, convergent evolution of placental mammals in Australia, the evolution of finches in Galapagos islands are examples of evolution due to environmental changes and do not involve human intervention.
  
• The appearance of antibiotic-resistant microbes and dark winged moth in England during the post-industrialization period is due to repeated and prolonged use of antibiotics and industrial pollution respectively involving human intervention, hence called anthropogenic evolution.

So, the correct option is option D.