Question

The wings of a bat and wings of bird are an example of

• A. Analogous organs
• B. Vestigial organs
• C. Hind limbs
• D. Homologous organs

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To solve the problem, we need to determine whether the wings of a bat and the wings of a bird are analogous organs or homologous organs.

1. Understanding Analogous Organs:
Analogous organs are structures that have similar functions but different evolutionary origins. They arise independently in different species due to convergent evolution, where unrelated organisms develop similar traits to adapt to similar environments or lifestyles.

2. Understanding Homologous Organs:
Homologous organs are structures that have the same evolutionary origin but may have different functions. These organs share a common ancestry and are derived from the same embryonic tissue, even though they may look different or serve different purposes.

3. Analyzing the Wings of a Bat and a Bird:
The wings of a bat and the wings of a bird are used for flying, which makes them functionally similar. However, their evolutionary origins are different:

• Bat wings are modified forelimbs with elongated fingers covered by a thin membrane (patagium).
• Bird wings are modified forelimbs with feathers and a different skeletal structure.

Since these wings evolved independently in bats and birds to fulfill the same function (flying), they are considered analogous organs.

4. Eliminating Other Options:
(B) Vestigial organs: These are reduced or non-functional remnants of an organ that was functional in an ancestor. The wings of a bat and a bird are fully functional and not vestigial.
(C) Hind limbs: This option is irrelevant as the wings are clearly not hind limbs.
(D) Homologous organs: As explained earlier, the wings of a bat and a bird do not share a common evolutionary origin, so they are not homologous.

Final Answer:
The wings of a bat and the wings of a bird are an example of Analogous organs.

Correct Option: (A) Analogous organs