Explain the terms analogous and homologous organs with examples.

Explanation

Those organs which have different basic structure (or different basic design) but have similar appearance and perform similar functions are called analogous organs. The wings of an insect and the wings of a bird are analogous organs. The wings of an insect and a bird have different . The wings of an insect and a bird have different structures (the insects have a fold of membranes as wings which are associated with a few muscles whereas a skeleton of bones, flesh and feathers support bird,s wings , flesh and feathers support bird's wings) but they perform the same function of flying.

Those organs which have the same basic structure (or same basic design) but different functions are called homologous rogans. The forelimbs of humans (man) and a lizard are homologous organs. Both these organs

have the same basic design of bones but they perferent functions. The forelimbs of a human (man) are used for grasping whereas the forelimbs of a lizerd are used for running.