The scales of reptiles and the feathers of birds are considered to be homologous structures because they
A - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 24 - 2002 - Paper 1
Question 24
The scales of reptiles and the feathers of birds are considered to be homologous structures because they
A. have arisen as a result of similar selection pressures.
B... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The scales of reptiles and the feathers of birds are considered to be homologous structures because they
A - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 24 - 2002 - Paper 1
Step 1
B. have a common evolutionary origin.
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Answer
Homologous structures are those that share a common ancestral origin, even if they have evolved different functions over time. In this case, the scales of reptiles and the feathers of birds have evolved from the same ancestral structure. This is indicative of their evolutionary relationship, highlighting how different species can diverge from a common ancestor while developing distinct adaptations.