Which of the following is an example of analogous structures?

• A. Wings of a butterfly and wings of a bird
• B. Leaves of a maple tree and leaves of an oak tree
• C. Teeth of a shark and teeth of a human
• D. Forelimbs of a human and forelimbs of a whale

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of analogous structures: Analogous structures are features in different species that have similar functions but do not share a common evolutionary origin. They arise due to convergent evolution, where different species adapt to similar environments or challenges in similar ways.
2. Identify the function of each structure: Examine the function of the wings of a butterfly and the wings of a bird. Both are used for flying, which is a similar function.
3. Consider the evolutionary origin: Determine if the wings of a butterfly and the wings of a bird have a common evolutionary origin. Butterflies are insects, and birds are vertebrates, indicating that their wings evolved independently.
4. Compare with other options: Analyze the other options provided. For example, leaves of a maple tree and leaves of an oak tree are homologous structures, as they share a common evolutionary origin. Similarly, teeth of a shark and teeth of a human, as well as forelimbs of a human and forelimbs of a whale, are homologous structures.
5. Conclude which option represents analogous structures: Based on the analysis, conclude that the wings of a butterfly and wings of a bird are analogous structures because they perform similar functions but evolved independently.