Birds and insects both have wings, but we do not consider this similarity as evidence of relatedness because
A) bird wings function on different physics principles of lift.
B) insect wings are vestigial.
C) the wings are not homologous structures with a common ancestral origin.
D) they did not evolve in the same region or live at the same time period.
E) there is no fossil link between these groups.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The wings of birds and insects are not homologous structures that evolved from a common ancestral origin. They have separate evolutionary paths, with bird wings developing from modified forelimbs and insect wings developing from a folding of the exoskeleton. Therefore, this similarity in wings is not indicative of relatedness.

Birds and Insects Both Have Wings, but We Do Not