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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about monotremes is correct?
A
Monotremes are a group of marsupials found only in South America.
B
Monotremes are placental mammals that nurse their young with milk.
C
Monotremes are reptiles that give birth to live young.
D
Monotremes are mammals that lay eggs, such as the duck-billed platypus.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the term 'monotremes'. Monotremes are a unique group of mammals that are distinct from other mammals because they lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young. Examples include the duck-billed platypus and echidnas.
Step 2: Analyze the first statement: 'Monotremes are a group of marsupials found only in South America.' Marsupials are a different group of mammals that give birth to underdeveloped young and carry them in a pouch. Monotremes are not marsupials, and they are found in Australia and New Guinea, not South America. This statement is incorrect.
Step 3: Analyze the second statement: 'Monotremes are placental mammals that nurse their young with milk.' Placental mammals give birth to live young and have a placenta to nourish the fetus during development. Monotremes do not have a placenta, but they do nurse their young with milk. This statement is partially correct but ultimately incorrect because monotremes are not placental mammals.
Step 4: Analyze the third statement: 'Monotremes are reptiles that give birth to live young.' Monotremes are mammals, not reptiles, and they lay eggs rather than giving birth to live young. This statement is incorrect.
Step 5: Analyze the fourth statement: 'Monotremes are mammals that lay eggs, such as the duck-billed platypus.' This statement accurately describes monotremes, as they are egg-laying mammals. Therefore, this is the correct answer.