Question

The flippers of the Penguins and Dolphins are the example of the

• A. Adaptive radiation
• B. Natural selection
• C. Convergent evolution
• D. Divergent evolution

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Penguin and dolphin flippers demonstrate convergent evolution.

To clarify this phenomenon, consider the following:

• Convergent Evolution: This process describes the independent development of similar characteristics or adaptations in distinct species. These similarities arise when species face comparable environmental conditions or occupy similar ecological roles. Consequently, despite their divergent evolutionary histories, these species acquire analogous structures that serve identical purposes.
• Flippers in Penguins and Dolphins: The flippers of both penguins and dolphins are adaptations that facilitate efficient aquatic locomotion. As penguins are avians and dolphins are mammals, their flippers did not originate from a shared ancestor possessing such features. Instead, these structures evolved independently in response to similar environmental demands, thereby illustrating convergent evolution.