Which of the Following Statements Best Explains How Gene Duplication

Multiple Choice

Which of the following statements best explains how gene duplication events, such as those seen in the Hox gene complex, may have allowed the evolution of new morphological forms?

A) There are more copies of genes, meaning speciation had occurred by polyploidy.
B) The original gene copy is the outgroup, and the new gene copies are the adaptive radiation.
C) Without duplicated genes, species would be vulnerable to extinction.
D) One copy of a gene can perform the original function, while other copies are available to take on new functions.