If, someday, an archaean cell is discovered whose rRNA sequence is more similar to that of humans than the sequence of mouse rRNA is to that of humans, the best explanation for this apparent discrepancy would be
A) homology.
B) homoplasy.
C) common ancestry.
D) retro-evolution by humans.
E) coevolution of humans and that archaean.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Homoplasy refers to a similarity in the structure or genetic sequence of different species that is due to convergent evolution rather than to descent from a common ancestor. In the scenario described, the surprising similarity between human rRNA and that of an archaean cell, more so than between humans and mice, would likely be due to convergent evolution (homoplasy), rather than direct common ancestry. This is because archaea and humans are very distantly related on the evolutionary tree, with mice being much closer relatives to humans.

If, Someday, an Archaean Cell Is Discovered Whose RRNA Sequence