Q158 / 180 · AIIMS 2004 · Zoology

A baby has been born with a small tail. It is a case exhibiting

A
retrogressive evolution
B
mutation
Correct answer
C
atavism
D
metamorphosis.

Solution

There are some rare cases in medical literation which could be interpreted as atavisms, that is the reappearance of our ancestor's organs, in which more prolonged traits, already lost by human beings throughout evolution, are expressed again. Such is the case of supranumerary mammary glands, sacral tail etc.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'C'.

More Evolution Questions

Assertion: Interspecific competition is the only potent force in organic evolution. Reason : Unexceptionally two closely related species com26 May, 2018Process or Mechanism of Evolution
Which of the following evidences does not favour the Lamarckian concept of inheritance of acquired characters?2011Process or Mechanism of Evolution
Assertion : Darwin's finches show a variety of beaks suited for eating large seeds, flying insects and cactus seeds. Reason : Ancestral seed2005Process or Mechanism of Evolution
Assertion : The Cro-Magnon man was the direct ancestor of the living modern man. Reason : Cro-Magnon man had slightly prognathous face.25 May, 2019Human Evolution
Assertion: Darwin's finches show a variety of beaks suited for eating large seeds, flying insects and cactus seeds. Reason : Ancestral seed-26 May, 2018Theory of Darwin
Documented microfossils have been found that are as old as2017The Earth