How does the existence of homologous structures support the theory of evolution?

Answer 1

When comparing earlier and later developments, homologous structures become more refined through time. When comparing common ancestors, we can compare the derivations of a homologous structure between two successors and also between the ancestor and each successor. We thus see several relationships between this and that, from 'right now', 'a little before now' and 'way back then'.

For example, we see two species whose legs are very similarly structured, and then we find an ancestor that also possessed such a leg, except it was simpler or shorter or in a different ratio between sections. We can draw conclusions that the later species developed both from this earlier one, and that this earlier one died out, after its successors (which eventually became the newer species) could survive more often because they had better structured legs.

Answer 2

The theory of descent from modification simply states that organisms come from a common ancestor and move into new environments and adapt over time. Homologous structures are related to this theory because they've adapted to different environments, but are structurally similar. Take a bat wing and a human arm, for example. They technically should serve similar purposes; however, both bats and humans have adapted to their own environments, so wings and arms are used for different purposes.

Answer 3

Analogous structures show that different organisms have evolved similar adaptations in similar environments. For example, many mammals have evolved large ears in hot, arid environments. Large ears allow these animals regulate their body temperatures.

Kangaroos in Australia and jack rabbits in the United States do not have a resent common ancestor (such as a jack rabbit and a snow shoe hare). The reason that the kangaroo and jack rabbit animals have similar ears is because they both evolved to their environment. Since their environments are similar, evolution too both species on a similar evolutionary path.

Since this piece of evidence focuses on microevolution rather than macroevolution (speciation), analogous structures as evidence for evolution is largely uncontroversial.

Answer 4

They can trace back to a common ancestor, and when all the structures of the same organism is put together, it could show a progression of species (which is evolution if there are some differences).

Answer 5

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Answer 6

Homologous structures show similarities in our anatomy with other species giving evidence of a common ancestor.

Answer 7

It is true that homologous structures do support the theory of evolution. Analogous structures do not support the theory of evolution.

Answer 8

Supports common ancestry. Since the bones of your forearm are almost bone for bone in your dogs foreleg is rather good evidence that we and dogs share common ancestry.

Answer 9

To show descent from common ancestors.