Humans and bananas share about 60% of the same DNA. This doesn’t mean humans are part banana, but it highlights the connection between all living organisms on Earth through evolutionary history.

  • The genetic similarity is mainly due to shared sequences that code for proteins involved in cellular processes. These are fundamental processes in all life forms, such as:
    • cell growth
    • metabolism
    • synthesis of proteins.
  • These genes are highly conserved, meaning they haven’t changed much over millions of years of evolution. The remaining 40% difference is what makes humans and bananas different. These differences determine the complex traits, structures and functions that make the two species distinct.
  • Humans and bananas, as with all living organisms, share a common ancestor that existed billions of years ago. Different species evolved due to different environmental pressures, leading to the diversity of life seen today. However, the genetic blueprints for basic functions have remained similar across many species.
  • While humans aren’t genetically close to bananas in a meaningful way, it is a reminder of how life on Earth is interconnected.
← Previous
Next →