Comparative Anatomy Quiz: Homologous, Vestigial, and Analogous Structures

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Questions and Answers

What are vestigial structures?

Structures that perform different functions but are derived from a common ancestor

Structures that have lost their original function but still persist in the organism's body (correct)

Structures that have the same function but are not derived from a common ancestor

Structures that are fully functional and essential for the organism's survival

What best describes analogous structures?

Structures that have the same function but are not derived from a common ancestor (correct)

Structures that perform different functions and are not derived from a common ancestor

Structures that have different functions and are derived from a common ancestor

Structures that have the same function and are derived from a common ancestor

How have emu wings changed over time?

They have regressed and become vestigial due to natural selection favoring traits for survival on the ground (correct)

They have developed analogous structures to aid in terrestrial locomotion

They have evolved to become more functional for flight

They have remained unchanged over time due to lack of environmental pressures

What is the purpose of wisdom teeth in evolutionary terms?

To adapt to a more upright posture and larger jaws for chewing tough plant materials Signup and view all the answers

What happened to the tails of our primate ancestors over time?

They regressed, leaving behind vestigial coccyx Signup and view all the answers

Why have wisdom teeth become vestigial in humans?

Due to the change in diet and jaw size over evolutionary time Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for emu wings to become vestigial?

Natural selection favored traits enhancing survival on the ground rather than in the air Signup and view all the answers

Why are analogous structures not necessarily evidence of a common ancestor?

Because analogous structures evolve independently in different species and do not indicate a common ancestry Signup and view all the answers

What are vestigial structures?

Features or organs in a living organism that have lost their original function through evolution Signup and view all the answers

How do vestigial structures differ from homologous structures?

Homologous structures are inherited from a common ancestor, while vestigial structures have lost their original function through evolution Signup and view all the answers

Why do vestigial structures no longer serve their original function?

The environment no longer requires these structures to be functional Signup and view all the answers

Why have emu wings become vestigial over time?

Due to the terrestrial lifestyle of emus and natural selection favoring traits that enhance survival on the ground. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of emu wings in their current vestigial state?

The wings have lost all function and are purely remnants of their flying ancestors. Signup and view all the answers

How do emu wings demonstrate the concept of vestigial structures?

By losing their original function and persisting in the organism's body despite being unnecessary. Signup and view all the answers

What is the evolutionary significance of emu wings becoming vestigial?

It highlights natural selection favoring traits that enhance survival on the ground rather than in the air. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Comparative Anatomy

Comparative anatomy is the study of similarities and differences in structures between different species.
Success criteria:
- Recognize comparative anatomy
- Differentiate between types of structures
- Identify each structure and its meaning

Homologous Structures

Definition: Anatomical structures inherited from a common ancestor.
Example: Forelimbs of vertebrates (e.g., humans, birds, whales) – similar bones, but adapted for different uses.
Origin of the term "homologous": Greek words "homos" (same) and "logos" (relation).
Evolution predicts that body parts are more likely to be modified from ancestral parts than entirely new features.

Vestigial Structures

Definition: Anatomical features or organs that have lost their original function through evolution.
Characteristics:
- Had a purpose in the organism's ancestors
- Became unnecessary or redundant over time as the species evolved
Examples: not specified in the provided text, but common examples include the human appendix, wisdom teeth, and whale pelvis bones.

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Description

Test your knowledge of comparative anatomy with this quiz. Learn to recognize, differentiate, and identify different types of structures such as homologous, vestigial, and analogous structures. Challenge yourself with the success criteria and expand your vocabulary in the field.