Answer to Question #119936 in Evolution for Teresa Grimes

Question

Discuss the similarities and differences between whale flippers and flukes and fish fins. Use the scientific terms “homologous structures” and “analogous structures” in the discussion. (50 words minimum)

Answer 1

Homologous structures are structures in two or more species that originate as the same structure in a common ancestor while analogous structures look similar and also they perform similar kind of function but do not show recent common ancestral history while Fluke don't contain bones, while fins do. Flukes go fast while fins steer. Flukes also manage temperature control.

The whale's flipper, tail flukes and fish fins are analogous structure because have different structural formation but they perform the same function.

Flipper and tails are used in locomotion in the whale and helps the whale in propelling while fins in fish assist the fish in swimming. Both the structures have evolved differently and are made of different materials.