Question

scientists notice structural similarities between fossils of a land animal and an aquatic organism. they know the similarities are not a result of the two organisms having to adapt to similar environments. what can they attribute the structural similarities to?
convergent evolution
common ancestry
transitional evolution
similar mating habits

Explanation:

• Convergent evolution leads to similar traits due to similar environments (but this is ruled out here).
• Transitional evolution refers to forms showing traits of ancestral and derived groups.
• Similar mating habits don't explain structural similarities.
• Common ancestry (homologous structures) is when traits are inherited from a common ancestor, which fits as the similarities aren't due to environment.

Answer:

common ancestry