Study the wings of the birds in the two images below. Which of the following words applies to only one of the wing structures represented in this pair of species?
A. homologous
B. developmental
C. vestigial
D. inherited
I cannot post the pictures, but they are basically one picture of a running ostrich (I think so) and a hummingbird with its beak in a flower. Because ostriches cannot fly, I think the answer is C.
it's C
To determine which word applies to only one of the wing structures represented in the pair of species, we need to analyze the characteristics of each species' wings.
Looking at the description of the species in the images, we see that one image shows an ostrich, which is a flightless bird, while the other image shows a hummingbird, which is known for its ability to fly.
The wing structure of the hummingbird, as shown in the image with its beak in a flower, is capable of flight. Hummingbird wings are specially adapted for hovering and rapid forward flight. They have a unique skeletal structure, including elongated primary feathers that provide lift and maneuverability.
In contrast, ostriches have wings that are not adapted for flying. Their wings are significantly reduced in size and lack the necessary features for flight. Ostriches primarily use their wings for display during courtship rituals and for balance while running.
Now let's analyze the options to find the word that applies to only one of these wing structures.
A. Homologous: This term refers to structures derived from a common evolutionary ancestor. However, both the wing structures in the images are derived from a common ancestor with wings. Therefore, this option does not apply to only one of the wing structures.
B. Developmental: This term refers to the process of growth and differentiation of an organism from an embryo to an adult. It does not specifically differentiate between the wing structures.
C. Vestigial: This term describes traits or structures that have lost their original function through evolution. In this case, ostrich wings could be considered vestigial since they no longer have the function of flying. However, hummingbird wings are fully functional. Therefore, vestigial applies only to the wing structure of the ostrich.
D. Inherited: This term refers to traits or characteristics that are passed down from parents to offspring. Both wing structures are inherited, so this option does not apply to only one of the wing structures.
Based on our analysis, the word "vestigial" (option C) applies to only one of the wing structures represented in the pair of species, specifically the wing structure of the ostrich.