The production of megaphylls by many different species of plants is an example of _____.

a. parallel evolution

b. analogy

c. divergent evolution

d. homology

The two types of leaf morphology—microphylls and megaphylls—suggest that leaves evolved independently in several groups of plants. Microphylls (“little leaves”) are small and have a simple vascular system, whereas megaphylls are those with big leaves.

• Analogous organs are those that differ in their origin and structure but perform a similar function in two different species. They account for convergent evolution. For example, potato, a stem, and sweet potato, a root; both perform storage and vegetative propagation.

• Homologous organs are those organs that have the same basic structural design and origin but have different functions. Developed as a result of the adaptation to a different environment. For example, The pitcher plant and the Venus flytrap utilize leaves to trap and digest insects. Homologous organs account for divergent evolution.

Parallel evolution occurs when independent species acquire similar characteristics while evolving together at the same time in the same eco-space.

The most familiar examples of parallel evolution are the forms of leaves, where very similar patterns have appeared again and again in separate genera and families.

Megaphylls most likely appeared independently several times during evolution.