Answered

Chimpanzees and gorillas more closely resemble each other anatomically than either resembles humans. For example, the hands of chimpanzees and gorillas are structurally similar and quite different from human hands. Genetic-distance data suggest, however, that humans and chimpanzees are more closely related to each other than either is to gorillas. Assuming that the genetic-distance data are correct, explain why we might see this anatomical similarity between chimpanzees and gorillas.



Answer :

petegaffney
The anatomical similarity between chimpanzees and gorillas despite humans being genetically closer to chimpanzees can be explained by the concept of convergent evolution. This means that similar environmental pressures can lead to similar adaptations in unrelated species. In the case of chimpanzees and gorillas, they both inhabit forested environments and share similar ecological niches, which may have led to the development of similar anatomical features, such as their hands.

Other Questions