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 Have you ever thought about how different kinds of animals have body parts that work in similar ways? Like bats and bees? Both creatures have wings - even though their bodies are structured very differently. The key to understanding these differences lies in knowing what homologous and analogous structures are. In this article, we'll talk about each type of structure and discuss the similarities and differences between them. Homologous structures are similar structures in related organisms. The most important thing to remember about homologous structures is that they share common ancestry. In other words, only organisms that are somehow related to each other can have homologous structures. For example, a chimpanzee’s arm and a human’s arm are homologous structures. Both sets of arms have a similar structure and use and chimpanzees and humans share a common ancestor. What Are Analogous Structures?Analogous structures are similar structures in unrelated organisms. These structures are similar because they do the same job, not because they share common ancestry. For example, dolphins and sharks both have fins, even though they aren’t related. Both species developed fins because of how (and where) they live. What’s the Difference Between Homologous and Analogous Structures?Homologous and analogous structures have several key differences. Let’s take a look at them:
Homologous Structures ExampleA great example of homologous structures are the wings of a bat and the arms of a human. Bats and humans are both mammals, so they share a common ancestry. Both a bat’s wing and a human’s arm share a similar internal bone structure, even though they look very different externally. The wing and the arm also perform different functions - wings help bats fly, while arms help humans interact with their world in a very different way.
Analogous Structures ExampleA great example of analogous structures are a bat’s wing and a bee’s wing. Bats and bees do not share common ancestry, so the structures cannot be homologous. Both bat wings and bee wings serve a common purpose - helping bats and bees fly! The structures look similar on the outside, too. However, their internal structures are very different - bat wings have a bony structure with muscles, while bee wings are membranous extensions. Homologous and Analogous Structures - Key TakeawaysMany animals have body parts that look similar, even though they don’t share common functionality. Other animals have body parts that look totally different, but have a shared background. Here’s the difference between homologous and analogous structures:
What’s Next?Currently taking Biology and need help with other bio topics? Learn about photosynthesis, enzymes, cell theory, and what and how the cell membrane and endoplasmic reticulum work. Are you considering taking the SAT subject tests in a subject like biology? Make sure you get the inside information on the test before you make your decision. If you’re a freshman, sophomore, or junior, you might consider adding AP classes to your schedule. Here’s a complete list of AP courses and tests to help you choose classes that are perfect for you. Want to know the fastest and easiest ways to convert between Fahrenheit and Celsius? We've got you covered! Check out our guide to the best ways to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit (or vice versa). Need more help with this topic? Check out Tutorbase! Our vetted tutor database includes a range of experienced educators who can help you polish an essay for English or explain how derivatives work for Calculus. You can use dozens of filters and search criteria to find the perfect person for your needs.
About the Author Hayley Milliman is a former teacher turned writer who blogs about education, history, and technology. When she was a teacher, Hayley's students regularly scored in the 99th percentile thanks to her passion for making topics digestible and accessible. In addition to her work for PrepScholar, Hayley is the author of Museum Hack's Guide to History's Fiercest Females. What does the similarity of these structures suggest about the organisms?Even though two different species may not look similar, they may have similar internal structures that suggest they have a common ancestor. That means both evolved from the same ancestor organism a long time ago. Common ancestry can also be determined by looking at the structure of the organism as it first develops.
How are homologous similar to each other and how are they different?The two chromosomes in a homologous pair are very similar to one another and have the same size and shape. Most importantly, they carry the same type of genetic information: that is, they have the same genes in the same locations. However, they don't necessarily have the same versions of genes.
What is the study of similarities and differences in the body structure of organisms?Comparative anatomy is the study of the similarities and differences in the structures of different species. Similar body parts may be homologies or analogies. Both provide evidence for evolution.
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