Multiple Choice
Which of the following best explains why entering an interglacial period resulted in an increase in biodiversity on Earth?
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1. Introduction to Biology
Natural Selection and Evolution
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Which term describes structures in different species that are similar because of common ancestry?
A
Homologous structures
B
Convergent structures
C
Analogous structures
D
Vestigial structures
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of homologous structures: These are anatomical features in different species that are similar because they were inherited from a common ancestor. For example, the forelimbs of humans, whales, and bats share a similar bone structure due to shared ancestry.
Contrast homologous structures with analogous structures: Analogous structures are features that serve similar functions but do not share a common ancestry. For instance, the wings of birds and insects are analogous because they evolved independently to serve the function of flight.
Learn about vestigial structures: These are remnants of features that were functional in an ancestor but have lost their original function in the current organism. For example, the human appendix is considered a vestigial structure.
Understand convergent evolution: This is the process by which unrelated species evolve similar traits due to adapting to similar environments or ecological niches. Analogous structures are often a result of convergent evolution.
Identify the correct term based on the definition: Since the question asks for structures that are similar due to common ancestry, the correct term is 'homologous structures.'
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