[Campbell Biology P.597] Which of the following best describes an exaptation? | Practice Question
Which of the following best describes an exaptation?
A: A structure that evolves for one purpose and is later co-opted for a different function.
B: A structure that evolves in anticipation of future needs.
C: A newly formed structure that benefits an organism immediately upon its appearance.
D: A structure that has lost its original function and serves no current purpose.
Explanation
The text defines exaptations as 'Structures that evolve in one context but become co-opted for another function'. The example of jaw hinge bones being co-opted into ear bones in mammals illustrates this.