Pharyngeal nerves in vertebrates are much longer than the direct distance from the central nervous system to the target, because they evolved from preexisting structures.As a result, these nerves are not as efficient as they otherwise could be.Which term best explains this phenomenon?
A) Trade-offs
B) Heterozygote deficiency
C) Muller's ratchet
D) Adaptation
E) Developmental constraint

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This phenomenon can be explained by developmental constraint, which means that the evolution of a structure may be limited by the developmental processes that gave rise to it. In this case, the preexisting structures that formed the basis for the pharyngeal nerves had a certain size and shape, which constrained the evolution of the nerves and prevented them from being more efficient.

Pharyngeal Nerves in Vertebrates Are Much Longer Than the Direct