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Multiple Choice
Unlike eutherians, both monotremes and marsupials ________.
A
lay eggs and have scales
B
possess feathers for insulation
C
do not have a true placenta
D
are exclusively aquatic mammals
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the key terms in the problem. Eutherians, monotremes, and marsupials are all types of mammals. Eutherians are placental mammals, monotremes are egg-laying mammals, and marsupials give birth to underdeveloped young that continue development in a pouch.
Step 2: Analyze the options provided. The question asks for a characteristic shared by monotremes and marsupials that distinguishes them from eutherians. Review each option carefully to determine which one fits.
Step 3: Option 1 states 'lay eggs and have scales.' Monotremes lay eggs, but marsupials do not. Additionally, neither monotremes nor marsupials have scales, so this option is incorrect.
Step 4: Option 2 states 'possess feathers for insulation.' Feathers are a characteristic of birds, not mammals, so this option is also incorrect.
Step 5: Option 3 states 'do not have a true placenta.' This is correct because monotremes lay eggs and marsupials have a rudimentary placenta, unlike eutherians, which have a fully developed placenta. Option 4, 'are exclusively aquatic mammals,' is incorrect because monotremes and marsupials are not exclusively aquatic.