Wings of insects and birds are results of convergent evolution. This means that
A) insects must have evolved from birds.
B) these organisms share a recent common ancestor and so have similar adaptations.
C) these organisms have different adaptations to different environments.
D) insects and birds have each independently evolved structures that serve the same function flight) but have done so in very different ways.
E) the insects and birds must be related to possess such similar qualities. Unrelated species, each with very different structures allowing a common behavior flight), have independently evolved such adaptations. This is called convergent evolution since two species have converged on a similar solution to a common environmental issue. Here, flight is a highly advantageous mode of travel and both birds and insects have evolved ways to accomplish it.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Convergent evolution refers to the independent evolution of similar adaptations in unrelated species in response to similar environmental pressures. In this case, both insects and birds have evolved wings to achieve flight but have done so differently. Therefore, option D is the correct choice. Option A is incorrect because it suggests that birds evolved from insects, which is not supported by scientific evidence. Option B is partly correct, but it lacks the mention of convergent evolution, which is the main topic of the question. Option C is incorrect because it suggests that the adaptations are different, which is not true in this case. Option E is incorrect because it is not necessary for the organisms to be related to show similar adaptations, as seen in convergent evolution.

Wings of Insects and Birds Are Results of Convergent Evolution