Comparative Anatomy

Comparative Anatomy Key
A. Skull
B. Femur
C. Humerus
D. Pelvis
E. Sternum
F. Scapula

Comparative anatomy is the study of similarities and differences in the anatomy of organisms. Compare the specimens on display in this exhibit and you may notice that they all have the same basic design including a skull, 4 limbs, a spinal column, a torso, and a pelvis. This configuration, or one very similar to it, is common to most vertebrate species and suggests a common ancestor.