Analogous structures are a result of :-

Options

A. Divergent evolution
B. Convergent evolution
C. Shared ancestry
D. Stabilizing selection

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Analogous Structures**: Analogous structures are features in different species that serve similar functions but have different evolutionary origins and structures. For example, the wings of birds and insects serve the same function (flight) but are structurally different.

2. **Identifying Types of Evolution**: There are two main types of evolution to consider: divergent evolution and convergent evolution.
- **Divergent Evolution**: This occurs when two or more related species evolve different traits, often due to different environments. This typically leads to homologous structures, which are similar in structure but different in function.
- **Convergent Evolution**: This occurs when unrelated species evolve similar traits due to similar environmental pressures, leading to analogous structures. The structures may serve similar functions but do not share a common ancestor.

3. **Analyzing the Options**: The question asks about the cause of analogous structures. The options provided include:
- Divergent evolution
- Convergent evolution
- Stabilizing selection

4. **Selecting the Correct Answer**: Since analogous structures arise from convergent evolution, where unrelated species develop similar traits due to adaptation to similar environments, the correct answer is **convergent evolution**.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the result of analogous structures is due to convergent evolution.

**Final Answer**: Analogous structures are a result of convergent evolution.

---