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Multiple Choice
Which extant chordates are postulated to be most similar in appearance to the earliest chordates?
A
Hagfishes (Myxini)
B
Lancelets (Cephalochordata)
C
Tunicates (Urochordata)
D
Lampreys (Petromyzontida)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the question: The problem is asking which modern chordates are hypothesized to resemble the earliest chordates in appearance and characteristics. This requires knowledge of chordate evolution and morphology.
Review the characteristics of the earliest chordates: Early chordates were simple organisms with features such as a notochord, dorsal hollow nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, and post-anal tail. They were likely small, fish-like, and lacked complex structures like jaws or paired fins.
Analyze the options: Compare the morphological and evolutionary traits of the given chordates (Hagfishes, Lancelets, Tunicates, and Lampreys) to the characteristics of early chordates. Focus on simplicity and resemblance to primitive chordate features.
Focus on Lancelets (Cephalochordata): Lancelets are small, fish-like organisms that retain all the key chordate features throughout their life. They lack specialized structures like jaws or paired fins, making them morphologically similar to early chordates.
Conclude that Lancelets (Cephalochordata) are most similar to the earliest chordates based on their simple body plan and retention of primitive chordate features.