Question

Evolutionary convergence is characterized by
(a) Development of dissimilar characteristics in closely related groups.
(b) Development of a common set of characters in groups of different ancestry.
(c) Development of characteristics by random mating.
(d) Replacement of common characteristics in different groups.

Answer 1

Hint: The structures in different animals and plants are different from each other but in some cases they are similar, this condition is termed as homology or analogy. This condition is based on the similarity among organs with similar functions.

Complete answer:
Convergent evolution having adapted to similar environments or ecological niches, the organisms are independently evolved with similar traits. In this evolution, the organisms are not related closely to each other and are thus called monophyletic. The development of similar traits or structures among different groups of organisms is called convergent evolution. This occurs due to the similar environmental conditions. They are called the analogous organs and thus represent the convergent evolution.
Example: Wings of insects, birds, and bats that are similar to the structures of the wings of insects.
-The marsupials of Australia are similar to the placental mammals and also live in similar habitats.
-The eyes of the mammals and the eyes of the octopus have similar functions of vision but differ in the position of their retina.
They are somewhat similar to parallel evolution that undergoes adaptive convergence and are opposite to the divergent evolution where the characters of similar organisms are different in structure. This may occur due to the sudden mutation or adaptive radiation. They are the results of evolution.

So, the correct answer is ‘Development of a common set of characters in groups of different ancestry.’

Note:
When the species show similar characters but are closely related to the ancestors then it termed parallel evolution. When the two species undergo evolution independently but maintain the similarity between them then this condition arises. It generally occurs between unrelated species who do not exhibit the same or similar niches in a given habitat.