Homologous & Analogous Structures

Front

What are homologous structures?

Back

Structures in different species that are similar due to shared ancestry, even if they have different functions.

Front

What are analogous structures?

Back

Structures in different species that serve similar functions but do not share a common ancestry.

Front

Give an example of homologous structures.

Back

The arm bones of humans, birds, and whales.

Front

Give an example of analogous structures.

Back

The wings of a butterfly and the wings of a bird.

Front

What does it mean if two structures are homologous?

Back

It indicates that the species share a common ancestor.

Front

What does it mean if two structures are analogous?

Back

It indicates that the species evolved similar traits independently due to similar environmental pressures.

Front

True or False: Analogous structures show common ancestry.

Back

False.

Front

True or False: Homologous structures can have different functions in different species.

Back

True.

Front

What is an example of a vestigial structure?

Back

The human appendix.

Front

What is the significance of studying homologous and analogous structures in biology?

Back

They help scientists understand evolutionary relationships and adaptations.