Explain the terms analogous and homologous organs with examples.

Explanation

Homologous organs are organs that have similar origin and structure but perform different functions. A homologous characteristic helps to identify an evolutionary relationship between apparently different species, eg: limbs of vertebrates ( amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals) Analogous organs are organs that perform same function but have different origin and structure. An analogous characteristic helps decide that the different species are not closely related but evolved independently.
Eg: Wings of birds and bats are analogous organs. Both help in flight but they are structurally different. The wings of birds are covered with feathers while that of bats are skin folds stretched between fingers. The wings of birds and bats do not have a common ancestor, instead evolved independently.