The physical similarity between Zokors and true moles shows which evolutionary principle?
Answer
Convergent evolution
The physical body plan shared by zokors and true moles—characterized by a stout, nearly blind, digging morphology—is a classic example of convergent evolution. This occurs when unrelated lineages independently evolve similar physical solutions to overcome similar environmental challenges or exploit the same ecological niche. In this case, the powerful pressure of exploiting below-ground food resources shaped both groups toward this specialized digging structure, even though they originated from entirely different mammalian orders, highlighting the potent shaping force of consistent environmental demands on form.
Related Questions
To which order do Zokors, members of Myospalacinae, belong?How do Zokors utilize their protruding incisors while excavating soil?What adaptation prevents soil from entering the Zokor's auditory system?What primary food category forms the basis of the Zokor's herbivorous diet?Outside of mating or raising young, what is the typical social structure of Zokors?What term describes the helpless, blind, and naked state of newborn Zokors?What purpose do the shallower tunnels in a Zokor burrow system typically serve?In which specific Asian region is the Chinese zokor, genus Eospalax, found?The physical similarity between Zokors and true moles shows which evolutionary principle?How is the tail structure of a typical Zokor generally described?