InterviewSolution
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What are homologous structures? Give an example. Is it necessary that homologous structures always have a common ancestor. Justify your answer. |
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Answer» • Homologous structures are similar structures in related organisms. The most important thing to remember about homologous structures is that they share common ancestry. • In other words, only organisms that are somehow related to each other can have homologous structures. • For example, a chimpanzee’s arm and a human’s arm are homologous structures. • Both sets of arms have a similar structure and use and chimpanzees and humans share a common ancestor. Yes, it is necessary that they have a common ancestor, since otherwise there cannot be any similarity in basic plan, origin or internal structure. |
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