Question

The given picture shows an evidence of evolution in which the arm of the Compsognathus, wing of the Archaepoteryx and modern bird are similar to each other. Such similarities in structures are known as

• A. Analogous structures
• B. Homologous structures
• C. Vestigial structures
• D. Homogenous structures
• E. Embryological structures

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Homologous structures

• Divergent evolution i.e., the evolution of organisms in different directions from a common ancestry leads to the development of homologous organs. Homologous organs perform different functions and have different appearances but share a common basic structural plan and origin.
• Analogous organs perform similar functions and have a similar appearance but have different basic structures and origins.
• The poorly developed/non-functional organs of recent forms of organisms that were fully developed and functional in related ancestral forms are referred to as vestigial organs. Structures present in an embryo are called embryological structures.
• In the given example, an arm of the Compsognathus, a wing of the Archaeopteryx, and a modern bird are similar to each other but perform different functions; they are homologous structures.

Therefore, the correct answer is option B.