Final answer:
The animal cell structure that resembles plant plasmodesmata the most are gap junctions, as both provide channels for intercellular communication.
Step-by-step explanation:
The animal cell structure that plasmodesmata in plants most closely resemble are gap junctions. Both plasmodesmata and gap junctions act as channels between adjacent cells, allowing for the transport of ions, nutrients, and other small molecules, facilitating intercellular communication. Structurally, however, they are quite different. While plasmodesmata are found in plant cells, gap junctions serve a similar function in animal cells, creating direct pathways for cellular communication. Unlike tight junctions which create a watertight seal, or desmosomes which provide strong adhesion, gap junctions allow for the exchange of substances, similar to plasmodesmata in plants.