Question

Scientific theory holds that convergent evolution occurs when different species independently evolve analogous structures, or features that may appear different, but perform the same function. Creatures evolve such structures in order to adapt to their environments. A scientist argues that bats and birds have analogous structures. Which of the following supports his argument? A. Bats use echolocation to track their prey, while birds rely primarily on sight. B. Unlike bird wings, bat wings are composed primarily of membrane, but both types of wings provide flight capabilities. C. Baby bats gain nourishment from their mother's milk, while baby birds eat worms and bugs brought by their mothers. D. Both bats and birds frequently make their homes in trees, bridges, and attics.

Short answer

B. Unlike bird wings, bat wings are composed primarily of membrane, but both types of wings provide flight capabilities.

Step-by-step solution

Review the Definition of Convergent Evolution

Convergent evolution occurs when different species independently evolve analogous structures. These features may appear different but perform the same function. This helps living organisms to adapt to their environments.

Examine Each Option

Go through each option and evaluate if it supports the argument that bats and birds have analogous structures: A. Echolocation and sight are different methods of tracking prey, so this option does not support the argument. B. This option points out the difference in the composition of bat and bird wings, but also states that both wings provide flight capabilities. This option supports the argument as the wings of both species perform the same function. C. This option illustrates the difference in how baby bats and birds gain nourishment. Therefore, it does not support the argument about analogous structures. D. This option mentions the common shelters of bats and birds, which does not relate to the analogous structures in the definition of convergent evolution.

Choose the Best Option

Based on the analysis in Step 2, Option B is the best choice as it provides evidence that supports the scientist's argument that bats and birds have analogous structures. Both types of wings provide flight capabilities, which is the primary function of wings. So, the correct answer is: B. Unlike bird wings, bat wings are composed primarily of membrane, but both types of wings provide flight capabilities.

Key concepts

Analogous Structures

In evolutionary biology, the term "analogous structures" refers to features in different species that perform similar functions but do not share a common ancestral origin. These structures evolve independently in different organisms as a result of similar selective pressures in their environments.

One classic example is the wings of birds and bats. While the wings serve the same purpose—facilitating flight—they are not derived from a common evolutionary ancestor. Bird wings are adaptations of forelimbs, characterized by feathers covering their bony structure, whereas bat wings are made of stretched skin membranes. Despite these structural differences, both serve the ultimate goal of flight, illustrating convergent evolution.

These similarities in function arise not because of shared ancestry but because of similar environmental challenges and natural selection processes. Thus, analogous structures are a testament to nature's ability to find similar solutions to exterior challenges, even amongst vastly different life forms.

Evolutionary Biology

Evolutionary biology is the scientific study of the processes that lead to the diversity and complexity of life on Earth. It encompasses a range of topics including natural selection, genetic drift, and speciation.

One pivotal idea in evolutionary biology is convergent evolution, where unrelated species develop similar traits independently to solve analogous ecological problems. This can lead to the formation of analogous structures, as seen in the wings of birds and bats.

By examining these traits, scientists can infer the adaptive pressures that shaped species' evolution. This branch of biology helps explain how physical traits can evolve separately in different species to perform the same function, showcasing how adaptation works at both micro and macro scales in producing biodiversity.

• Convergent evolution highlights the adaptability of life.
• Analogous structures provide evidence for such evolutionary patterns.

Overall, evolutionary biology offers insight into how species develop and adapt over time, providing a broader understanding of life’s diversity.

Adaptation

Adaptation is a key concept in understanding how organisms survive and thrive in their environments. It involves changes in physical structure, function, or behavior that increase an organism's chances of survival and reproduction.

For instance, the development of wings in both bats and birds is an adaptation that allows these animals to utilize flight for survival—whether to escape predators, hunt for food, or migrate. While the structures of the wings are different, their functionality serves similar purposes.

Adaptation can occur over many generations through the process of natural selection. Organisms with traits that are better suited to the environment are more likely to survive and pass those advantageous traits on to offspring, leading to long-term evolutionary changes.

• Adaptation can lead to the development of new traits or the modification of existing traits.
• It is a continuous process that can affect an organism's physiology, morphology, or behavior.

By understanding adaptation, scientists can create a detailed picture of how various species are molded by their environments.