Which of the following is an example of homology (similarity due to common ancestry)?

• A. The eye of a human and the eye of an octopus
• B. The wing of a bat and the flipper of a whale
• C. The tail fin of a shark and the tail fin of a dolphin
• D. The wing of a butterfly and the wing of a bird

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of homology: Homology refers to similarities between organisms that are due to shared ancestry. Structures that are homologous may have different functions but share a common evolutionary origin.
2. Identify the examples given: The problem provides four examples: the eye of a human and the eye of an octopus, the wing of a bat and the flipper of a whale, the tail fin of a shark and the tail fin of a dolphin, and the wing of a butterfly and the wing of a bird.
3. Analyze the evolutionary relationships: Consider the evolutionary lineage of each pair. Homologous structures are derived from a common ancestor, even if they serve different functions in the present-day organisms.
4. Evaluate the anatomical structures: The wing of a bat and the flipper of a whale are both forelimbs that have evolved differently in mammals, indicating a common ancestry despite their different functions.
5. Conclude with the correct example: Based on the analysis, the wing of a bat and the flipper of a whale are homologous structures, as they share a common evolutionary origin in mammals.