Some molecular data place the giant panda in the bear family (Ursidae) but place the lesser panda in the raccoon family (Procyonidae). If the molecular data best reflect the evolutionary history of these two groups, then the morphological similarities of these two species is most likely due to ________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Homoplasic (convergent) traits refer to traits that have evolved independently in two different lineages due to similar environmental pressures, rather than being inherited from a common ancestor. This would best explain the morphological similarities between the giant panda and lesser panda, despite their molecular classification in different families.

Some Molecular Data Place the Giant Panda in the Bear