Evolution

Analogous

Structures that perform similar functions but evolved independently in unrelated species. Similar appearance due to similar selective pressures, not common ancestry.

Biological Context

Bird wings and insect wings are analogous—both function for flight but evolved independently. Analogous structures (convergent evolution) show that evolution often finds similar solutions to similar problems. They lack the underlying structural similarity of homologous features.

Related Terms

Tags

evolutionconvergenceadaptation