Members of two different species possess a similar-looking structure that they use in a similar fashion to perform the same function. Which information would best help distinguish between an explanation based on homology versus one based on convergent evolution?
A)The two species live at great distance from each other.
B)The two species share many proteins in common, and the nucleotide sequences that code for these proteins are almost identical.
C)The sizes of the structures in adult members of both species are similar in size.
D)Both species are well adapted to their particular environments.
E)Both species reproduce sexually.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that the two species share many proteins in common and have almost identical nucleotide sequences suggests that they are more closely related and may have inherited the similar structure from a common ancestor (homology) rather than evolving independently to perform the same function (convergent evolution).

Members of Two Different Species Possess a Similar-Looking Structure That