The pelvis and femur in a whale are considered vestigial structures. These bones are remnants from the whale’s ancestors, who were land-dwelling mammals. Over millions of years, as whales evolved to live in water, their bodies underwent significant changes. The hind limbs, which were once used for walking, became unnecessary and gradually reduced in size.
The pelvis and femur in modern whales no longer serve a functional purpose in locomotion. Instead, they are small and often embedded within the body, not connected to the rest of the skeleton. These vestigial structures provide evidence of the evolutionary history of whales, showing how they transitioned from land to sea.
In summary, the pelvis and femur in a whale are considered vestigial structures that highlight the evolutionary journey of these magnificent marine mammals.