Homologous, analogous, and Vestigial Structures

Front

What are homologous structures?

Back

Structures that have similar evolutionary origins but may serve different functions.

Front

What are analogous structures?

Back

Structures that have similar functions but different evolutionary origins.

Front

What are vestigial structures?

Back

Anatomical features that no longer seem to have a purpose in the current organism.

Front

Give an example of homologous structures.

Back

Human arms and whale flippers.

Front

Give an example of analogous structures.

Back

Bird wings and butterfly wings.

Front

What is the main difference between homologous and analogous structures?

Back

Homologous structures share a common ancestry, while analogous structures do not.

Front

What is the function of vestigial structures in evolution?

Back

They provide evidence of an organism's evolutionary past.

Front

Are shark fins and dolphin fins homologous or analogous structures?

Back

Analogous structures.

Front

What is the human appendix considered?

Back

A vestigial structure.

Front

How do scientists use homologous structures to study evolution?

Back

They compare similarities in anatomy to infer evolutionary relationships.