What does comparative anatomy study?

Comparative anatomy focuses on the examination of similarities and differences in the anatomical structures of various species. This field helps to infer evolutionary relationships by highlighting how different species have adapted their anatomies to meet similar functional challenges or environmental pressures. By studying the anatomical features, scientists can identify homologous structures that indicate a common ancestry, as well as analogous structures that may arise independently in different lineages due to convergent evolution. This comparative approach not only sheds light on evolutionary processes but also aids in the classification and understanding of the diversity of life forms present in the natural world.