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Multiple Choice
How is developmental homology used as evidence of common ancestry?
A
It demonstrates that all species have identical adult body structures.
B
It reveals that genetic mutations occur only during embryonic development.
C
It proves that environmental factors alone determine the development of organisms.
D
It shows that different species share similar embryonic stages, indicating they inherited developmental patterns from a common ancestor.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of developmental homology: Developmental homology refers to similarities in embryonic development across different species, which suggest that these species share a common ancestor.
Recognize that developmental homology does not imply identical adult body structures. Instead, it focuses on shared patterns during early stages of development.
Clarify that genetic mutations can occur at any stage of an organism's life, not exclusively during embryonic development. This is not the basis for developmental homology.
Explain that environmental factors can influence development, but developmental homology is rooted in inherited genetic patterns, not solely environmental influences.
Conclude that developmental homology provides evidence of common ancestry by showing that different species share similar embryonic stages, indicating they inherited developmental patterns from a shared ancestor.