homoplasy

The definition of homoplasy is characteristics of an organ that are shared by different species because of shared evolution.

(noun)

An example of homoplasy is when the organs of two different species of animals have similar characteristics, functions and features.

See homoplasy in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

Biol. correspondence between parts as a result of similarity of environment rather than common heredity

Origin: homo- + -plasy

See homoplasy in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

Correspondence between parts or organs arising from evolutionary convergence.

link/cite print suggestion box

More from YD