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Multiple Choice
Which type of animals are most closely associated with Australia due to their high diversity and endemism?
A
Placental mammals
B
Reptiles
C
Marsupials
D
Monotremes
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of endemism: Endemism refers to species that are native to a specific geographic location and are not naturally found elsewhere. Australia is known for its unique biodiversity, including species that are endemic to the region.
Review the types of mammals: Mammals are divided into three main groups based on their reproductive strategies: placental mammals, marsupials, and monotremes. Placental mammals give birth to fully developed young, marsupials give birth to underdeveloped young that continue development in a pouch, and monotremes lay eggs.
Focus on marsupials: Marsupials are highly diverse and endemic to Australia. Examples include kangaroos, koalas, and wombats. Their reproductive strategy and adaptation to the Australian environment contribute to their high diversity in this region.
Compare with monotremes: Monotremes, such as the platypus and echidna, are also unique to Australia but are less diverse compared to marsupials. They represent a smaller group of egg-laying mammals.
Conclude why marsupials are the correct answer: Marsupials are most closely associated with Australia due to their high diversity and endemism, making them a defining feature of the region's fauna.