Asked by Michelle Stephens on Jul 22, 2024
Verified
Which of the following sequences correctly represents vertebrate evolution?
A) jawless fish → lobe-finned fish → amphibians → reptiles → mammals
B) jawless fish → amphibians → reptiles → lobe-finned fish → mammals
C) mammals → lobe-finned fish → reptiles → jawless fish → amphibians
D) lobe-finned fish → mammals → reptiles → jawless fish → amphibians
E) lobe-finned fish → reptiles → mammals → jawless fish → amphibians
Vertebrate Evolution
The process of change and diversification in vertebrates over time, leading to the current diversity of species with backbones.
Lobe-Finned Fish
A class of fish known for having fleshy, lobed, paired fins, which are precursors to the limbs of terrestrial vertebrates.
- Gain insight into the evolutionary trajectory from ancestral chordates to present-day vertebrates, pinpointing crucial events in the evolution of vertebrates.
Verified Answer
AP
Aurora PattersonJul 23, 2024
Final Answer :
A
Explanation :
This sequence represents the correct order of vertebrate evolution, starting with the earliest ancestor (jawless fish) and leading up to the emergence of mammals. The inclusion of lobe-finned fish between jawless fish and amphibians also reflects current understanding of vertebrate evolution, as these fish are believed to have been important evolutionary intermediates in the transition from fish to amphibians. Reversing the order of lobe-finned fish and amphibians, as in option B and E, or including mammals before reptiles, as in option C and D, is inconsistent with current knowledge of vertebrate evolution.
Learning Objectives
- Gain insight into the evolutionary trajectory from ancestral chordates to present-day vertebrates, pinpointing crucial events in the evolution of vertebrates.