Some beetles and flies have antler-like structures on their heads, much like male deer do. The existence of antlers in beetle, fly, and deer species with strong male-male competition is an example of

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The antler-like structures in beetles, flies, and deer are not homologous, as they evolved independently in each lineage. They also do not represent the most parsimonious explanation, as it would be simpler to assume that antlers evolved only once in the common ancestor of all species with antlers. Therefore, the best explanation for the presence of antler-like structures in these different lineages is convergent evolution. The structures are a result of strong male-male competition in each lineage, which has selected for similar features to compete for mates. This is a classic example of convergent evolution. Synapomorphies are shared derived characteristics that indicate common ancestry between a group of organisms, which does not apply to antler-like structures in different lineages.

Some Beetles and Flies Have Antler-Like Structures on Their Heads