Comparative Anatomy

Front

What are vestigial structures?

Back

Remnants of organs or structures that were functional in ancestral species but are no longer useful.

Front

What role do vestigial structures play in understanding evolution?

Back

They provide evidence of an organism's evolutionary history.

Front

Why do vestigial structures provide evidence of evolutionary history?

Back

They indicate organisms have evolved from ancestors with different needs and lifestyles.

Front

What are analogous structures?

Back

Structures that have similar functions but different evolutionary origins.

Front

Why are analogous structures important in the study of evolution?

Back

They suggest that organisms independently evolved similar solutions to environmental challenges.

Front

Give an example of an analogous structure.

Back

The wings of birds and insects.

Front

What is the significance of homologous structures in comparative anatomy?

Back

They indicate common ancestry among different species.

Front

What is an example of homologous structures?

Back

The forelimbs of mammals, such as humans, whales, and bats.

Front

How do vestigial structures support the theory of evolution?

Back

They show how species adapt over time and how certain traits may become unnecessary.

Front

What is the difference between homologous and analogous structures?

Back

Homologous structures arise from a common ancestor, while analogous structures arise independently.