Question

Which of the following is {not an example of convergent evolution?}

• A. Wings of butterflies and birds
• B. Flippers of penguins and dolphins
• C. Fore limbs of whales and bats
• D. Eyes of octopuses and mammals

Hint:

Logic Tip: Use the mnemonic \textbf{AC/HD}: \textbf{A}nalogous organs = \textbf{C}onvergent evolution (Different origin, Same function). \textbf{H}omologous organs = \textbf{D}ivergent evolution (Same origin, Different function).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1 : Understanding the Question:
The goal is to differentiate between convergent and divergent evolution by identifying the pair of organs that do {not} show convergent evolution. This requires understanding the difference between analogous and homologous structures.
Step 2 : Key Formulas and Approach:
1. Convergent Evolution: Unrelated species develop similar traits (analogous organs) to adapt to similar environments. (Different origin, same function).
2. Divergent Evolution: Related species develop different traits (homologous organs) from a common ancestral structure. (Same origin, different function).
Step 3 : Detailed Explanation:

Wings of butterflies and birds (A): Insects and birds are phylogenetically distant. Their wings have completely different structural designs but perform the same function (flying). This is convergent evolution (analogy).

Flippers of penguins and dolphins (B): Penguins (birds) and dolphins (mammals) are not closely related. Their flippers independently evolved for swimming in aquatic environments. This is convergent evolution (analogy).

Eyes of octopuses and mammals (D): These organisms belong to different phyla. Although their eyes appear similar in function and camera-like structure, their developmental origins are distinct. This is convergent evolution (analogy).

Forelimbs of whales and bats (C): Whales and bats are both mammals. Their forelimbs share the same fundamental skeletal pattern (humerus, radius, ulna, etc.) inherited from a common ancestor. However, they have been modified for swimming and flying, respectively. This is divergent evolution (homology).

Step 4 : Final Answer:
Since the forelimbs of whales and bats are homologous organs representing divergent evolution, they are not an example of convergent evolution. Thus, the third choice is correct.