What mechanism of evolution explains the similarity of bone structures between the wings of birds and the arms of humans?
Homology
The discovery of homologous structures, such as the wings of bats and the arms of humans, reveals the existence of a common ancestor and illustrates the diversification of functions over the course of evolution. These structural similarities between very different species are not due to chance but result from evolution from this shared ancestor, showing how natural selection can shape organs differently according to the adaptive needs of each species. This concept of homology is crucial for understanding how biological complexity has developed over time, highlighting the deep connections that unite all living beings on our planet. Thus, the study of homologous structures continues to provide irrefutable evidence of evolution, affirming our understanding of life as a dynamic and interconnected process.
