NEETZoologyEvolution
What are homologous structures?
Options
- AStructures that perform similar functions but are anatomically different
- BStructures that are anatomically similar and indicate common ancestry
- CStructures that evolved independently in different species
- DStructures that are present only in specific environments
Correct answer
B. Structures that are anatomically similar and indicate common ancestry
Step-by-step solution
Divergent evolution refers to similar anatomical structures in different species that evolve to perform different functions due to adaptations.Such similarities can be interpreted to understand whether common ancestors were shared or not. For example whales, bats, Cheetah and human (all mammals) share similarities in the pattern of bones of forelimbs. Though these forelimbs perform different functions in these animals, they have similar anatomical structure – all of them have humerus, radius, ulna, carpals, metacar