Question

What are analogous structures? How are they different from homologous structures? Provide one example for each. 

OR 

Differentiate between homology and analogy. Give one example of each.

Answer 1

Homology	Analogy
1. Organisms having the same structure developed along different directions due to adaptations/ different functions.	1. Different structures having the same function (in different organisms).
2. Result of divergent evolution.	2. Result of convergent evolution.
3. Indicates common ancestry.	3. Does not indicate common ancestry.
4. Anatomically same structures.	4. Anatomically different structures.
5. Example: Forelimbs of whale—bats—cheetah— human// Thorns of Bougainvillea and tendrils of cucurbits	5. Example: Wings of butterfly and birds, Sweet potato and potato