[Campbell Biology P.596] The discussion of the human eye and limpet eye primarily serves to ... | Practice Question

The discussion of the human eye and limpet eye primarily serves to illustrate which point about evolutionary novelties?

  • A: Complex structures can evolve gradually from simpler, functional forms through incremental modifications.
  • B: All complex organs must evolve simultaneously in their complete form to be functional.
  • C: Limpets are direct ancestors of humans, sharing a common lineage for eye evolution.
  • D: Only complex eyes are advantageous for survival and reproduction.

Explanation

The passage uses the examples of the human eye and the limpet eye to counter the argument that complex structures could not have evolved incrementally. It demonstrates that simpler forms like the limpet's photoreceptor patch can be fully functional and provide a selective advantage, serving as precursors from which more complex structures can gradually develop.