Sweet potato and potato represent a certain type of evolution. Select the correct combination of terms to explain the evolution.
Correct Answer :
Analogy, convergent
Solution :
The correct answer is Analogy, convergent.
Let us break down the explanation step-by-step:
1. Understanding the structures:
- Sweet potato is a modified root that stores food.
- Potato is a modified stem (specifically a tuber) that also stores food.
2. Concept of Analogy vs. Homology:
- Homologous organs have the same anatomical origin and basic structure but may perform different functions (e.g., the forelimbs of humans and bats). They indicate a common ancestry and lead to divergent evolution.
- Analogous organs have different anatomical origins and structures but perform similar functions. In this case, sweet potato (root origin) and potato (stem origin) both perform the function of food storage, despite having different structural origins. Thus, they represent an analogy.
3. Concept of Convergent vs. Divergent Evolution:
- Since sweet potato and potato have different evolutionary origins but have evolved similar structures to perform the same function (food storage) due to similar environmental or functional pressures, they represent convergent evolution.
Therefore, the correct combination of terms is Analogy, convergent.
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