What are vestigial organs? Give one example.
Question
What are vestigial organs? Give one example.
Solution
Vestigial organs are parts of an organism that are reduced in size and often functionless, representing a vestige of an organ that was fully developed and functional in some ancestor. These organs have lost their original function through evolution.
For example, the human appendix is a vestigial organ. In our herbivorous ancestors, the appendix was a large cecum, used in the digestion of plant matter. As human diets changed, the cecum became less necessary and eventually evolved into the much smaller organ we call the appendix. Today, the appendix has no known essential function in humans.
Similar Questions
What are vestigial structures? Give an example.
how many vestigal organs are there in human body
"explain the difference between organs and organ systems, giving 2 examples"
Fossil evidence shows that structures considered vestigial in living organismsGroup of answer choiceshave always been vestigial.are not found in ancient organisms.do not fill gaps in the fossil record.were useful to their ancestors.
Which organ is part of the cardiorespiratory system?Group of answer choicesthe kidneythe lungsthe liverthe brain
Upgrade your grade with Knowee
Get personalized homework help. Review tough concepts in more detail, or go deeper into your topic by exploring other relevant questions.