Some molecular data place the giant panda in the bear family (Ursidae)but place the lesser panda in the raccoon family (Procyonidae).Consequently,the morphological similarities of these two species are probably due to
A)inheritance of acquired characteristics.
B)sexual selection.
C)inheritance of shared derived characters.
D)possession of analogous structures.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The morphological similarities between the giant panda and the lesser panda, despite their placement in different families, are likely due to convergent evolution, where unrelated species independently evolve similar traits. This results in analogous structures, which are features that serve similar functions but are not derived from a common ancestral feature.

Some Molecular Data Place the Giant Panda in the Bear