Comparing Life: Anatomy Across Species

Comparative anatomy is all about studying similarities and differences between the structures of different organisms.

Why Compare?

By comparing bones, organs, and tissues, scientists learn how animals are related and how body structures evolved over time.

Homologous vs. Analogous Structures

• Homologous: Body parts with similar structures but different functions (like a human arm and a bat's wing).
• Analogous: Body parts with similar functions but different structures (like a bird's wing and an insect's wing).

Applications

Comparative anatomy helps scientists classify animals, understand evolution, and even design better prosthetics for humans by studying animal movement.

Fun Fact

The bones in a whale’s flipper and your hand have the same arrangement!