Question

Among the following sets of examples for divergent evolution, select the incorrect option :

• A. Forelimbs of man, bat and cheetah
• B. Brain of bat, man and cheetah
• C. Heart of bat, man and cheetah
• D. Eye of octopus, bat and man

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The question is about identifying the incorrect option among given examples of divergent evolution. Divergent evolution is the process by which two or more related, but reproductively isolated populations become more dissimilar. This often occurs when different populations adapt to different environmental constraints, leading to the emergence of new species.

Let's analyze each option:

1. Forelimbs of man, bat, and cheetah: This is an example of divergent evolution, as the forelimbs have adapted to different functions such as grasping in humans, flying in bats, and running in cheetahs. Although they perform different functions, they share a common ancestral structure.
2. Brain of bat, man, and cheetah: The brain structures among these animals show an example of divergent evolution as they have evolved differently according to the specific needs of each species, despite having a common evolutionary origin.
3. Heart of bat, man, and cheetah: Similar to brains, the hearts of these species have diverged from a common ancestor, adapting to the specific circulatory needs of flying in bats, upright posture and endurance demands in humans, and high-speed running in cheetahs.
4. Eye of octopus, bat, and man: This option stands out as the incorrect example. The eyes of an octopus and those of vertebrates like bats and humans provide an example of convergent evolution, not divergent. They have developed independently to perform similar functions (vision) with a different evolutionary starting point and structure.

Based on the above analysis, the option "Eye of octopus, bat, and man" is not an example of divergent evolution. It is, instead, an example of convergent evolution where different organisms independently evolve similar traits.

Conclusion: The correct answer is that the eyes in the mentioned organisms represent convergent, not divergent evolution.