Question Details

Identify the option that gives the correct type of exhibited by the two animals shown, living in the same habitat in Australia.

Options

A

Convergent Evolution

B

Disruptive Selection

C

Divergent Evolution

D

Homologous Ancestry

Show Answer

Correct Answer :

Option A

Convergent Evolution

Solution :

The correct option is Convergent Evolution.

Step-by-Step Explanation:
1. Analyzing the Image:
The attached image displays two distinct animals labeled as Mouse (on the left) and Marsupial mouse (on the right). Despite belonging to completely different mammalian groups, they share remarkably similar morphological characteristics, such as body shape, snout appearance, tail structure, and size.
2. Mammalian Lineages:
- The standard Mouse is a placental mammal (Eutherian), which nourishes its developing fetus via a placenta.
- The Marsupial mouse is a marsupial (Metatherian), which carries and raises its undeveloped offspring in a pouch.
These two groups diverged from a common ancestor long ago and have separate evolutionary paths.
3. Why it is Convergent Evolution:
Convergent evolution occurs when unrelated or distantly related organisms independently evolve similar physical traits, behaviors, or adaptations due to living in similar environments and facing similar selective pressures. Under the isolation of Australia, marsupials underwent extensive adaptive radiation, occupying ecological niches that correspond to those of placental mammals elsewhere. Because both the mouse and the marsupial mouse adapted to similar ecological niches and lifestyles, natural selection favored highly similar body plans and structures, leading to this striking resemblance.

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