Question

which is the best description of insect wings?

A) they are homologous to insect mouth parts

B) they are homologous to vertebrate front legs

C) they are homologous to vertebrate hind legs

D) they are extensions of current insect limbs

E) they are cuticular extension of the epidermis

Answer 1

Option E

Homologous organs are those which have the same function but different structures.

Mouthparts and Wings of insects have different structures and different functions. Therefore they are not homologous organs.

Vertebrate front legs, hind legs, and wings of insects have different functions and different structures. Therefore they are not homologous organs.

Wings of insect are not modified forelimbs like birds. They are only an extension of cuticle and help in flight. Wings of insects and birds are homologous organs because they have different structure but perform same function.