Some beetles and flies have antler-like structures on their heads, much like male deer. The existence of antlers in beetle, fly, and deer species with strong male-male competition is an example of which of the following?
A) convergent evolution
B) similarity due to shared ancestry
C) homology
D) parsimony

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Antler-like structures in beetles, flies, and deer, which are not closely related, but have evolved similar traits due to similar selective pressures (strong male-male competition), is an example of convergent evolution. This is where unrelated species evolve similar traits independently, often due to facing similar environmental challenges or ecological niches.

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