Question

Which of the following statements is not true?

• A. Analogous structures are a result of convergent evolution
• B. Sweet potato and potato is an example of analogy
• C. Homology indicates common ancestry
• D. Flippers of penguins and dolphins are a pair of homologous organs

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Evolutionary relationships are studied through homologous structures (same origin, different function $\rightarrow$ divergent evolution) and analogous structures (different origin, same function $\rightarrow$ convergent evolution).
Detailed Explanation:
- (1) Correct: Analogous structures evolve in different species living in similar environments, leading to similar functional adaptations (Convergent evolution).
- (2) Correct: Sweet potato (root modification) and Potato (stem modification) have different anatomical origins but perform the same function of food storage. Thus, they are analogous.
- (3) Correct: Homology is based on structural similarity derived from a common ancestor (Divergent evolution).
- (4) Incorrect: Flippers of penguins (birds) and dolphins (mammals) are analogous organs. They have different skeletal structures but have evolved similar paddle-like shapes for swimming in a marine environment.
Step 2: Final Answer:
Statement (4) is false because it misclassifies a classic example of analogy as homology.