Which of the following statements is TRUE regarding eyes?
A)Given the lack of any evolutionarily conserved genes between Drosophila, marine life, and mammals, it is most likely that eyes evolved independently in these organisms.
B)Only compound eyes possess opsin, providing evidence that eyes evolved independently in vertebrates and invertebrates.
C)Despite outward differences, eye anatomy-even between the eyes of planarians and humans-is remarkably similar.
D)None of the answer options is correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The statement that eyes evolved independently in different organisms due to a lack of evolutionarily conserved genes is incorrect. Research has shown that the gene Pax6 plays a crucial role in eye development across a wide range of species, indicating a common evolutionary origin for eyes. Opsin, a light-sensitive protein, is found in both compound and simple eyes, suggesting a shared evolutionary heritage rather than independent evolution. Additionally, while there are significant differences in the complexity and structure of eyes across species, the fundamental genetic and biochemical pathways involved in eye development show remarkable conservation, contradicting the idea that eye anatomy is entirely different between species like planarians and humans.

Which of the Following Statements Is TRUE Regarding Eyes