Question

The process by which organism with different evolutionary history evolves similar phenotypic adaptations in response to a common environmental challenge, is called
A. Natural selection
B. Convergent evolution
C. Non-random evolution
D. Adaptive radiation

Answer 1

Hint: Evolution refers to gradual changes in heritable characteristics in a population over subsequent generations. It is the evolution of species that has resulted in the vast biodiversity we see. Adaptation on the other hand is variations that organisms develop to survive in their habitat. The type of evolution suggested in the question can be seen in the wings of butterflies and birds.

Complete step by step answer: Evolution is a slow and gradual process that has resulted in variation in all of the biodiversities we encounter. The concept of Evolution is based on the genetic mutations that a population undergoes. Various organisms of the same species when drifted away to isolated lands with different habitats are forced to undergo mutations and adaptations. Adaptations allow the organism of the same population on different geographical land to develop different characteristics, feeding habits, reproduction, etc.
-Natural selection is the foundation of evolutionary theory based on the concept that the most beneficial trait that enhances the survival of an organism continues to persist over subsequent generations. This new trait that is best of all previous traits makes the organisms carrying it fittest to survive as compared to their old generations. The organisms share the same evolutionary history.
-Convergent selection refers to the evolution type in which the different species develop the same physical characteristics due to common environmental or geographical conditions. The term convergent means to come close. So here two different species relate to each other because of their similar phenotypic character. This can be seen in the wings of butterflies and birds. Both organisms use their wings to take flight and both wings have similar phenotypic characters.
-Non-random evolution is a concept of natural selection. It states that the variations that take place in generations are random but the selection of that variation to persist is non-random.
-Adaptive radiation is a type of evolution in which it is believed that different species originate from a single point organism and then these variants radiate into other geographical areas. So, this is not the correct answer.
Hence, the correct answer is option B, i.e., Convergent evolution.

Note: The convergent evolution has provided various characteristic similarities to different species. But these similarities do not make them converge based on their literal evolution. The genetic constitution remains different in different species. A major example of convergent evolution can be seen in different fish species.