NEET BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The correct answer is (c) analogous structures. Analogous structures are defined as traits or structures that are similar in two different species, but were not inherited from a common evolutionary ancestor. That is, the structures evolved independently but are similar because of shared selective pressures.

Detailed explanation-2: -What Are Analogous Structures? Analogous structures are similar structures in unrelated organisms. These structures are similar because they do the same job, not because they share common ancestry. For example, dolphins and sharks both have fins, even though they aren’t related.

Detailed explanation-3: -Homologous Structures. The structures derived from a common ancestor or from the same evolutionary or developmental origin are referred to as homologous structures. Homologous structures may not necessarily perform the same function. An example of homologous structures is the forelimbs of humans and bats.

Detailed explanation-4: -On the opposite side of the spectrum, analogous structures are similar physical features in organisms that do not share a common ancestor. Instead, these structures are related to one another because they perform the same function. An example of this are the wings of a bat and the wings of a bird.

Detailed explanation-5: -The opposite of homologous structures are analogous structures, which are physically similar structures between two taxa that evolved separately (rather than being present in the last common ancestor). Bat wings and bird wings evolved independently and are considered analogous structures.