Molecular evidence suggests that fungi _____.

• A. are a polyphyletic group
• B. evolved from a multicellular protist
• C. evolved from plants
• D. were once photosynthetic
• E. and animals have a common ancestor

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of molecular evidence: Molecular evidence in biology refers to the use of DNA, RNA, and protein sequences to determine evolutionary relationships between organisms.
2. Recognize the evolutionary relationship between fungi and animals: Molecular studies have shown that fungi and animals share a more recent common ancestor with each other than with plants, indicating a closer evolutionary relationship.
3. Consider the concept of a common ancestor: A common ancestor is an organism from which two or more different species evolved. In this context, it refers to the shared ancestor of both fungi and animals.
4. Evaluate the options given in the problem: Analyze each option to determine which one aligns with the molecular evidence that suggests a common ancestry between fungi and animals.
5. Conclude that the correct statement is that fungi and animals have a common ancestor, based on molecular evidence supporting their evolutionary relationship.