The term convergent evolution is most applicable to which of the following features?
A) The legless condition found in various lineages of extant lizards.
B) The five-digit condition of human hands and bat wings.
C) The fur that covers Australian moles and North American moles.
D) The bones of bat forelimbs and the bones of bird forelimbs.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Convergent evolution refers to the development of similar traits or characteristics in unrelated organisms, usually in response to similar environmental pressures or ecological niches. The legless condition found in various lineages of extant lizards is an example of convergent evolution since these lizards evolved similar traits independently of each other in response to similar environmental pressures. The other choices do not fit the definition of convergent evolution since they involve related organisms or shared ancestry.

The Term Convergent Evolution Is Most Applicable to Which of the Following