Question

Which one of the following options gives one correct example each of convergent evolution and divergent evolution?

• A. Eyes of octopus and mammals, Bones of forelimbs of vertebrates
• B. Thorns of Bougainvillea and tendrils of Cucurbita, Wings of butterfly and birds
• C. Bones of forelimbs of vertebrates, Wings of butterfly and birds
• D. Thorns of Bougainvillea and tendrils of Cucurbita, Eyes of octopus and mammals

Answer 1

The correct option is A Eyes of octopus and mammals, Bones of forelimbs of vertebrates

Development of similar adaptive functional structures in unrelated groups of organisms is called convergent evolution. It shows analogy. Examples are wings of butterfly and birds, eye of octopus and mammals, flippers of penguins and dolphins, etc. On the other hand, divergent evolution involves the modification of organs to perform different functions as an adaptation to different environments. For example forelimbs of vertebrates (whales, bat, cheetah, human). Though these perform different functions, they have similar anatomical structure.

So, the correct answer is 'Eyes of octopus and mammals, Bones of forelimbs of vertebrates'.