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Multiple Choice
Which of these is an example of analogous structures?
A
Teeth of a shark and teeth of a crocodile
B
Wings of a butterfly and wings of a bat
C
Leaves of a cactus and leaves of a maple tree
D
Forelimbs of a human and forelimbs of a whale
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of analogous structures: Analogous structures are features in different species that have similar functions but do not share a common evolutionary origin. They arise due to convergent evolution, where different species adapt to similar environments or challenges in similar ways.
Identify the function of each structure in the options: For example, wings of a butterfly and wings of a bat both serve the function of flight, despite their different evolutionary origins.
Compare the evolutionary origins: Analogous structures do not share a common ancestor. In the case of wings, butterfly wings are made of chitin and are part of the insect's exoskeleton, while bat wings are modified forelimbs with a skeletal structure similar to other mammals.
Differentiate from homologous structures: Homologous structures, in contrast, are features that share a common evolutionary origin but may serve different functions. For example, the forelimbs of a human and a whale are homologous, as they share a common ancestor but have adapted to different functions (manipulation vs. swimming).
Apply this understanding to the given options: Recognize that the wings of a butterfly and wings of a bat are analogous because they perform the same function (flight) but evolved independently in insects and mammals.