What information related to evolution can be obtained from the discussion on comparative structure of hearts of different vertebrate groups ? Explain the following two terms in the light of Darwinism –
(a) Survival of the fittest
(b) Natural selection
OR
Explain the evolutionary significance of homologous and analogous organs with the help of example. What are the adaptive significances of air sacs of Pigeon ? [3+2=5]
The comparative structure of hearts in different vertebrate groups provides important information about evolution. In the evolutionary sequence, fishes have a simple, serially arranged heart with two chambers. As we move up to amphibians and reptiles, the heart becomes more compact and develops three chambers. In birds and mammals, the heart is highly advanced with four distinct chambers, which allows complete separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood. This stepwise increase in the structural and functional complexity of the heart among vertebrates is a strong evidence of evolution. It supports the idea of a common origin of vertebrates and shows how adaptive changes have occurred in response to environmental requirements and increased metabolic needs.​
(a) Survival of the fittest (according to Darwinism)
“Survival of the fittest” means that only those individuals which possess favourable variations or adaptations survive in the struggle for existence. These well-adapted individuals are better suited to secure food, shelter and other resources, and hence, are more likely to survive and reproduce. The individuals that lack these beneficial traits are eliminated over time, resulting in the survival of only the fittest organisms in nature.​
(b) Natural selection (according to Darwinism)
Natural selection is the process by which nature selects and preserves individuals with advantageous variations. These organisms are able to survive and reproduce more effectively in their environment. Over successive generations, the accumulation of such favourable variations brings about adaptive changes in the population, leading to evolution. Nature acts as a selecting agent, guiding the formation and survival of new species by favouring those best suited to their surroundings.
Or
Evolutionary Significance of Homologous and Analogous Organs
Homologous organs are those which have similar structural organization and origin, but different functions in different organisms. For example, the forelimb of a horse is used for running, the wings of a bird and a bat for flying, and the flipper of a whale for swimming. All these organs have the same internal structure—containing bones like humerus, radius, ulna and phalanges—and common developmental origin, but their functions differ according to the needs of the organisms. Homologous organs provide evidence of divergent evolution, showing that various organisms have evolved from a common ancestor by modification of the same basic structure to adapt to different functions.​
Analogous organs, on the other hand, are organs that have similar functions but differ in their structural organization and origin. For example, the wing of an insect and the wing of a bird are both used for flying, but their structure and development are different. Thus, analogous organs illustrate convergent evolution, where different groups of organisms have independently developed similar adaptations to similar environmental challenges.​
Adaptive Significance of Air Sacs of Pigeon
The air sacs of pigeon are air-filled cavities connected to the lungs. Their adaptive significance is twofold:
- Air sacs reduce the specific gravity of the body, making the body light and thus aiding in flight.
- They increase the efficiency of gas exchange, supporting high energy demand during flight by facilitating a continuous supply of fresh air to the lungs even during both inhalation and exhalation
Related Questions
More WBBSE Moderate level questions