Homology and homoplasy
Shared ancestry and independent similarity are different explanations.
Key knowledge
Homology describes similarity due to common ancestry of the compared feature. Homoplasy describes similarity not attributable to inheritance of that feature from the relevant common ancestor, including convergent evolution. The level of comparison matters: limb bones and flight function can have different histories.
Conditions and scope
- A homology assertion needs a stated feature and evidential comparison.
- Similar function or superficial appearance alone is insufficient.
Sources · 1
References
Sources retain their recorded scope. A source link alone does not establish verification of every statement.
Evidence and review
Source homologous vertebrate limb and analogous flight examples.
2026-10-10 · Checked feature-specific ancestry distinction.
Entry details
Permanent link to this entry ↗- Record identity
- bio-homology-homoplasy
- Revision
- university-reference.1
- Structured reference record
- University reference