Question

The bones in the front limbs of many mammals are similar in their structure and arrangement. What term is used to describe physical similarities between related species that indicates a common ancestry?
A) vestigial organs
B) convergent anatomy
C) embryonic parallels
D) homologous structures

Answer 1

The correct answer is; D

Homologous structures is the term used to describe physical similarities between related species that indicates a common ancestry.

Homologous structures are structures that have the same form or functions in different animals, indicating that the animals have evolved from a common ancestor. Homologous structures usually appear very similar in form but it may or may not have the same function in the different animals that are suggested to be related. The bones in the front limbs of many different mammals (such as humans, deer and bats) which are similar in their structure and arrangement are homologous structures.