Question

In comparison to a functional organ, what evolutionary meaning does a vestigial organ hold?

Options

• It represents a remnant of ancestral condition

• It is needed in its present form

• It indicates convergent adaptation to new functional demands

• It represents an incipient organ evolving toward future utility

Answer 1

While a functional organ is well developed, performs an important biological function, and is needed in its present form, a vestigial organ is a remnant of an ancestral condition whose original role is lost or greatly reduced.