The similarity in anatomy of forelimbs of different organisms like man, chhetah, whale and bat explains

Options

A. Common ancestry
B. Convergent evolution
C. Parallel evolution
D. Adaptive radiation

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the Organisms**: The question mentions the forelimbs of four different organisms: man (human), cheetah, whale, and bat.

2. **Analyze the Anatomy**: Examine the anatomical structure of the forelimbs in these organisms. Despite their different functions, they share a similar underlying skeletal structure, which includes bones like the humerus, radius, and ulna.

3. **Consider the Functions**: Each organism uses its forelimbs for different purposes:
- Humans use their forelimbs for manipulation and holding objects.
- Cheetahs use them for running and supporting their body while sprinting.
- Whales use their forelimbs (flippers) for swimming.
- Bats use their forelimbs (wings) for flying.

4. **Common Ancestry**: The similarity in the anatomical structure of these forelimbs suggests that they have evolved from a common ancestor. This is a classic example of homologous structures, where different species have similar features due to shared ancestry, even though they have adapted to perform different functions.

5. **Eliminate Other Options**:
- **Convergent Evolution**: This refers to different species evolving similar traits independently, usually due to similar environmental pressures. This does not apply here as the forelimbs share a common ancestry.
- **Parallel Evolution**: This involves different species evolving similar traits while remaining distinct, which is not the case for these forelimbs.
- **Adaptive Radiation**: This describes the diversification of a common ancestor into various forms, which is not directly relevant to the similarity of forelimbs.

6. **Conclusion**: The anatomical similarity of the forelimbs in humans, cheetahs, whales, and bats is best explained by the concept of common ancestry.

**Final Answer**: The similarity in anatomy of forelimbs of different organisms like man, cheetah, whale, and bat explains common ancestry.

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