What evolutionary principle explains the parallel development of powerful biting traits in Thylacoleo and placental carnivores?

Answer

Convergent evolution.

The evolution of Thylacoleo carnifex demonstrates the principle of convergent evolution. This concept describes the independent evolution of similar traits, structures, or adaptations in species of different lineages responding to similar environmental or ecological pressures. In this context, both Thylacoleo (a marsupial) and placental carnivores like lions and hyenas evolved exceptionally powerful bites to dominate the apex predator niche and subdue large prey. However, they achieved this specialization using different morphological toolkits: Thylacoleo utilized highly modified premolars, whereas placental carnivores often relied more on shearing carnassials, showing parallel evolutionary success in solving the same survival challenges.

What evolutionary principle explains the parallel development of powerful biting traits in Thylacoleo and placental carnivores?

Related Questions

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