Question

Which of the following option(s) represent(s) the evolutionary relationship between the bird and bat wings as structures for flying?

• A. analogous
• B. convergence
• C. divergence
• D. homologous

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, B

The question concerns the evolutionary relationship between bird and bat wings as structures for flying. To understand this, we need to examine the two types of structures often discussed in evolutionary biology: homologous and analogous structures.

1. Analogous Structures:

   Analogous structures are features in different species that perform a similar function but do not have a common ancestral origin. These structures result from a process known as convergent evolution, where different species independently evolve similar traits as a result of having to adapt to similar environments or ecological niches.

   Example: Bird and bat wings both provide the function of flying. However, birds and bats evolved their wings independently in response to similar environmental pressures, making their wings analogous structures.

2. Homologous Structures:

   Homologous structures are features in different species that have a common ancestral origin, even though they may serve different functions. For instance, the forelimbs of mammals such as whales, bats, and humans are structurally similar due to their descent from a common ancestor, despite their differing functions.

3. Convergence and Divergence:

   Convergent evolution refers to the process where organisms not closely related independently evolve similar traits. Since bird and bat wings have the similar function of flying but evolved independently, they illustrate convergence.

   Divergent evolution, on the other hand, is where two related species evolve different traits, often due to different environments or selective pressures.

Conclusion: The bird and bat wings represent analogous structures and an example of convergence. Therefore, the correct options are "analogous" and "convergence."