Question

Give the characteristic features that suggest a close phylogenetic relationship between man and apes.

Answer 1

1. Similarity in Skeletal Structure: Both have similar body plans with five fingers and toes, opposable thumbs (pollex) allowing grasping. Apes and humans have similar dental formulas and patterns. The vertebral column, limb bones, and basic body layout show close resemblance.
2. Posture and Locomotion: Though apes walk semi-erect, and humans are fully erect bipeds, apes like chimpanzees show knuckle-walking,a transitional form. 
3. Brain Size and Capacity: Brain size is larger in humans but apes have a significant brain volume relative to other animals. Both show complex behavior and some level of intelligence.
4. Genetic and Chromosomal Similarities: Human and chimpanzee chromosomes 3 and 6 show identical banding patterns. DNA similarity is very high, supporting common ancestry.
5. Developmental and Functional Similarities: Both exhibit similar reproductive and developmental characteristics. Presence of fingernails instead of claws. Similar facial muscles allowing facial expressions.