What is common to whale, seal and shark?[2007]a)Thick subcutaneous fatb)Convergent evolutionc)Homoiothermyd)Seasonal migration.Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Question

Answer

Convergent evolution is a type of evolution that happens when two or more species having different ancestors live in similar environment and develop similar adaptive features . Whale , seal and shark all have different ancestors,but they dwell in similar habitat . So , the correct ans is 'B '.

Answer

Distantly related animals (as whale, seal and shark) inhabiting similar habitars often develop similar morphological features that make them look similar. This is termed adaptive convergence or convergent evolution.

Answer

Convergent Evolution

Convergent evolution refers to the process where different species independently evolve similar traits or characteristics in response to similar environmental conditions or selective pressures. In the case of whales, seals, and sharks, they share certain similarities due to convergent evolution.

1. Aquatic Adaptations
- Whales, seals, and sharks have all evolved adaptations that allow them to thrive in aquatic environments.
- Whales and seals have streamlined bodies with flippers or fins, enabling efficient movement through water.
- Sharks also have a streamlined body shape, along with a cartilaginous skeleton that helps reduce weight and increase buoyancy.

2. Efficient Swimming
- All three species have evolved efficient swimming techniques to navigate through water.
- Whales use their powerful tail flukes to propel themselves forward, while seals use their muscular bodies and webbed feet for swimming.
- Sharks have a unique swimming style, utilizing their large pectoral fins to generate lift and maintain buoyancy.

3. Predatory Feeding
- Whales, seals, and sharks are all carnivorous predators.
- Whales primarily feed on small fish and krill, using baleen plates to filter out their prey.
- Seals are skilled hunters, preying on fish, squid, and other marine animals.
- Sharks have sharp teeth and powerful jaws, allowing them to capture and consume a wide range of prey.

4. Echolocation
- Both whales and some species of dolphins (which are closely related to whales) use echolocation to navigate and locate prey.
- Sharks, although not using echolocation in the same way as whales or dolphins, have a highly developed sensory system that allows them to detect prey from a distance.

5. Efficient Respiration
- Whales, seals, and sharks have adaptations for efficient respiration in water.
- Whales and seals are mammals and have lungs, but they can hold their breath for extended periods of time underwater.
- Sharks, on the other hand, have gills that extract oxygen from the water, allowing them to respire efficiently while swimming.

In conclusion, the common trait among whales, seals, and sharks is convergent evolution. They have independently evolved similar adaptations and characteristics that allow them to survive and thrive in aquatic environments, including efficient swimming techniques, predatory feeding strategies, and adaptations for respiration in water.

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