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Introduction
Darwin demonstrated how descent from a common ancestor might explain anatomical similarities between creatures. The similarities between living species, such as humans, whales, and birds which belong to the subphylum Vertebrata, show that they all developed from a single common ancestor, indicating a monophyletic origin and are known as homologous organs. Whereas in contrast, structures that serve the same function but originated independently in different groups of organisms that do not share a common ancestor are called analogous organs.
To study the homologous and analogous organs in animals, we have to follow these steps:
- Models such as butterfly, dragonfly, bird, cockroach, rabbit, that are required for the study are taken.
- Characteristic features such as shape, structure, similarities and dissimilarities, if any are present, are noted down.
- Carefully observe and study the analogous and homologous organs between the animal samples.
- Record the observations carefully with the labelled diagram.
Conclusion
The topic provides insight into both analogous and homologous organs in animals. Analogous organs have a different structure but the same function, whereas homologous organs have the same structure but different functions. Both types were studied using different examples in animals.
FAQs on Organs in Animals
Q1: What are homologous organs in animals?
Answer: Homologous organs are structures found in different animals that have a similar underlying anatomical structure or origin but may have different functions due to adaptations to their specific environments.
Q2: What are analogous organs in animals?
Answer: Analogous organs are structures that have similar function in different animals but do not share a common evolutionary origin or anatomical structure.
Q3: What is the major difference between homologous and analogous organs?
Answer: The main difference between homologous and analogous organs is their evolutionary origin. Homologous organs have a common ancestral origin, while analogous organs do not share a common ancestor but have similar functions due to convergent evolution.
Q4: Explain homologous organs with an example.
Answer: The forelimbs of vertebrates are the best example of homologous organs. The bones in the forelimbs (such as the humerus, radius, and ulna) have similar structural arrangements in animals like humans, bats, whales, and cats, even though these animals use their forelimbs for different purposes (e.g., flying, swimming, walking, or catching prey).
Q5: Explain analogous organs with an example.
Answer: Wings in insects (like dragonflies, cockroaches, butterflies) and wings in birds are analogous organs. They both serve the purpose of flying, but they have different underlying anatomies and evolutionary origins.
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