Homologous and Analogous Structures

What are homologous structures?

Structures with similar anatomy, morphology, embryology, and genetics, but different functions, inherited from a common ancestor.

What are analogous structures?

Structures with similar functions but different anatomical structures and evolutionary origins, not inherited from a common ancestor.

How do homologous structures develop?

They develop in related species through divergent evolution, adapting to different environments.

How do analogous structures develop?

They develop in unrelated species through convergent evolution, adapting to similar environments.

Give an example of a homologous structure.

The four limbs of tetrapods, such as mice, crocodiles, and birds, inherited from a common ancestor.

Give an example of an analogous structure.

The wings of birds and bats, which perform the same function but have different structural origins and evolutionary paths.

What is the significance of understanding homologous and analogous structures?

It helps in understanding evolutionary relationships and adaptations among different species.

How are the wings of birds and bats both homologous and analogous?

They are analogous as wings due to similar functions but homologous as forelimbs inherited from a common ancestor.

What does the term 'monophyletic' mean in the context of homologous structures?

It refers to organisms with a common ancestor, indicating homologous structures are found in such organisms.

Why are analogous structures not considered monophyletic?

Because they are found in organisms that do not share a common ancestor and have evolved similar functions independently.

What is the anatomy of homologous structures? (Similar/Dissimilar)

Similar anatomy.

What is the anatomy of analogous structures? (Similar/Dissimilar)

Dissimilar anatomy.

How do the functions of homologous structures compare?(Similar/Dissimilar)

Dissimilar in their functions.

How do the functions of analogous structures compare? (Similar/Dissimilar)

Similar in their functions.

What is the evolutionary origin of homologous structures? ( {not}/ inherited)

Inherited from a common ancestor.

What is the evolutionary origin of analogous structures? ( {not}/ inherited)

Not inherited from ancestors.

In what type of species do homologous structures develop? (Unrelated/Related)

Related species.

In what type of species do analogous structures develop? (Unrelated/Related)

Unrelated species.

What type of evolution results in homologous structures? (Divergent/Convergent)

Divergent evolution.

What type of evolution results in analogous structures? (Divergent/Convergent)

Convergent evolution.

What environment leads to the development of homologous structures?

Adaptation to different environments.

What environment leads to the development of analogous structures?

Adaptation to similar environments.