The similarity of the homeobox in many different kinds of organisms is evidence __________.

• A. of convergent evolution
• B. of analogy
• C. that it is not responsive to natural selection
• D. of its recent origin
• E. of the common ancestry of different life-forms

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a homeobox: A homeobox is a DNA sequence found within genes that are involved in the regulation of patterns of anatomical development (morphogenesis) in animals, fungi, and plants.
2. Recognize the significance of the homeobox: The homeobox is highly conserved across different species, meaning that it has remained relatively unchanged throughout evolution.
3. Consider the implications of conservation: When a genetic sequence is conserved across diverse species, it suggests that the sequence is crucial for fundamental biological processes and has been maintained through evolutionary history.
4. Relate conservation to common ancestry: The presence of a similar homeobox sequence in many different organisms indicates that these organisms likely share a common ancestor. This is because such a sequence would have been inherited from a common ancestor and preserved due to its essential role.
5. Conclude the reasoning: The similarity of the homeobox in various organisms is evidence of the common ancestry of different life-forms, as it reflects a shared evolutionary origin rather than independent development or recent origin.