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Question #47399
The Question
While studying the appendicular skeleton and locomotory mechanics of a bat and a bird, a student notes that both possess a modified pectoral girdle and forelimbs adapted for flight. Which of the following statements regarding their evolutionary biology is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
The aerodynamic flight surfaces (feathers in birds, patagium in bats) represent analogous structures driven by convergent evolution.
- B.
The humerus, radius, and ulna in their forelimbs represent homologous structures derived from a common tetrapod ancestor.
- C.
The structural modifications of their pectoral girdles to support massive flight muscles represent divergent evolution from a common flying ancestor.
- D.
Despite similar locomotory pressures, the anatomical design of their wings does not indicate a close phylogenetic relationship.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Evolutionary_Exception
Tackle problems where standard rules evolve or change based on specific environmental constraints.
Concepts Behind This Question
Pectoral Girdle|Analogous Organ Structure|Flight Adaptation
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often confuse the homology of the underlying skeletal blueprint (pentadactyl limb) with the evolutionary origin of the specific functional adaptation (flight).
The trap relies on the false assumption that because the bones are homologous, the flight mechanism itself must be a product of divergent evolution from a shared flying ancestor.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Locomotion and Movement - Class 11 |
| Concept | Appendicular Girdle Mechanics |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |