The DNA sequences for a portion of the myosin gene are shown for humans and several non-human primates. The fragments start at nucleotide #26 in the gene, and shaded boxes highlight differences between the two sets of sequences.

-What does the high level of similarity between the myosin gene sequences in human and non-human primates suggest?
A) Humans and non-human primates had a common ancestor at some time in the past.
B) Humans and non-human primates are not related.
C) The myosin gene arose independently in humans and non-human primates.
D) Genes can transfer readily between humans and non-human primates.
E) Natural selection did not occur in humans.

Question

The DNA sequences for a portion of the myosin gene are shown for humans and several non-human primates. The fragments start at nucleotide #26 in the gene, and shaded boxes highlight differences between the two sets of sequences.
 
-What does the high level of similarity between the myosin gene sequences in human and non-human primates suggest?
A) Humans and non-human primates had a common ancestor at some time in the past. 
B) Humans and non-human primates are not related. 
C) The myosin gene arose independently in humans and non-human primates. 
D) Genes can transfer readily between humans and non-human primates. 
E) Natural selection did not occur in humans.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Gene sequence similarity is an indication of the closeness of evolutionary relationships.

The DNA Sequences for a Portion of the Myosin Gene