LIFE SCIENCE

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OBJECTIVE LIFE SCIENCE

EVOLUTION

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
Sharks and dolphins look very much alike ____ both have streamlined bodies, fins, and sharp teeth. Sharks and dolphins, however, show every few similarities in protein and DNA structures implying that they are not closely related. The body structures have evolved independently. Which term is used by evolutionary biologists to describe the process by which two separate species may evolve in a similar way and come to resemble one another, but have no relation.
A
Adaptive Radiation
B
Convergent Evolution
C
Divergent Evolution
D
Coordinated Development
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -Streamlined bodies and fins are traits that dolphins and sharks evolved separately, both as adaptations for swimming. This means that sharks’ and dolphins’ similarities (body shape, fin, and flippers) are convergent traits that each lineage evolved independently.

Detailed explanation-2: -Their streamlined bodies, dorsal fins and flippers are the result of convergent evolution. Since dolphins and sharks occupy similar niches and face similar challenges, similar adaptations have been advantageous to them, resulting in their analogous structures.

Detailed explanation-3: -Both sharks and dolphins generally have what is called countershading where their bellies are lighter than their backs, which is a helpful way to blend in to the marine environment. Dolphins and sharks both have dorsal fins on their backs, two pectoral fins on their sides, and a tail.

Detailed explanation-4: -Another example of analogous structures are dolphins and sharks as whole species.

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