Question

The same basic array of bones is modified to give rise to the wing of a bat and the fin of a porpoise. Such anatomical structures are called:

Answer 1

Analogous structures are anatomical structures that have similar functions but do not share a common evolutionary origin. Homologous structures, on the other hand, share a common evolutionary origin and may have different functions. Bat wings and bird wings are both homologous and analogous structures.

Step-by-step explanation:

Analogous structures are anatomical structures that are similar in unrelated organisms. These structures have similar functions but do not share a common evolutionary origin. For example, the wings of bats and birds are analogous structures because they have similar functions but evolved independently.

Unlike analogous structures, homologous structures are anatomical structures that share a common evolutionary origin. They may have different functions in different organisms, but their similarities point to a common ancestor. For example, the forelimbs of bats, birds, horses, whales, and humans are homologous structures.

While bat wings and bird wings are homologous structures, they are also examples of analogous structures because they have similar functions. This dual similarity makes them both homologous and analogous.