The evolution of saber teeth in a number of groups of extinct carnivorous mammals is an example of
A)homoplasy caused by convergence.
B)homoplasy caused by common descent.
C)homoplasy caused by evolutionary reversal.
D)homology caused by convergence.
E)homology caused by common descent.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Saber teeth evolved independently in multiple groups of carnivorous mammals, such as in Smilodon (saber-toothed cat) and Thylacosmilus (saber-toothed marsupial). These similarities are a result of convergent evolution, where similar selective pressures led to similar adaptations, rather than being inherited from a common ancestor. Therefore, the correct answer is homoplasy caused by convergence (choice A).

The Evolution of Saber Teeth in a Number of Groups