Though they look quite different, because of evolved modifications, the limbs of whales, bats, and humans are all derived from the same structure present in the common ancestor of these mammals.Thus, these limbs are _______ structures.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Homologous structures are similar in structure and origin because they are derived from a common ancestor, even if they have different functions in different species. In this case, the limbs of whales, bats, and humans all share a similar bone structure despite their different appearances and functions, indicating that they are homologous structures. Analogous structures, in contrast, have similar functions but are not derived from a common ancestor and have different underlying structures. The other answer choices are not accurate descriptions of these limb structures.

Though They Look Quite Different, Because of Evolved Modifications, the Limbs