Some molecular data place the giant panda in the bear family (Ursidae) but place the lesser panda in the raccoon family (Procyonidae). If the molecular data best reflect the evolutionary history of these two groups, then the morphological similarities of these two species is most likely due to ________.
A) the inheritance of acquired characteristics
B) sexual selection
C) possession of analogous (convergent) traits
D) possession of shared primitive characters

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Possession of analogous (convergent) traits. This is because the molecular data shows that the two species are not closely related, but they share similar morphological features. This is likely due to the evolutionary process of convergent evolution, where unrelated species evolve similarities due to similar selective pressures in their environments.

Some Molecular Data Place the Giant Panda in the Bear