Comparative Anatomy

Front

What are analogous structures?

Back

Structures in different species that serve similar functions but have different evolutionary origins.

Front

What are homologous structures?

Back

Structures in different species that share a common ancestry, even if they have different functions.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

What is a vestigial structure?

Back

A structure that has lost most or all of its original function in a species, often due to evolution.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

How do vestigial structures provide evidence for evolution?

Back

They indicate changes over time, showing that certain structures were functional in ancestral species but are no longer necessary.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

What does the presence of homologous structures suggest about species?

Back

It suggests that the species share a common ancestor.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

What is the significance of analogous structures in evolutionary biology?

Back

They demonstrate how different species can evolve similar traits independently due to similar environmental pressures.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

Can you give an example of a vestigial structure in humans?

Back

The human appendix is often cited as a vestigial structure.

Front

What is the difference between homologous and analogous structures?

Back

Homologous structures arise from a common ancestor, while analogous structures arise independently in different species.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

Why are homologous structures important for understanding evolution?

Back

They provide evidence of common ancestry and evolutionary relationships among species.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

What role do environmental pressures play in the evolution of analogous structures?

Back

Environmental pressures can lead to convergent evolution, where unrelated species develop similar traits to adapt to similar challenges.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS4-5