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Multiple Choice
Which of the following pieces of evidence best supports the hypothesis that four-limbed animals (tetrapods) evolved from fish?
A
The development of wings in insects
B
The ability of some mammals to live in aquatic environments
C
Fossil records showing transitional forms with both fish-like and tetrapod-like features, such as Tiktaalik
D
The presence of feathers in modern birds
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the hypothesis being tested. The hypothesis states that tetrapods (four-limbed animals) evolved from fish. This implies that there should be evidence showing a gradual transition from fish-like features to tetrapod-like features.
Step 2: Evaluate the options provided. The development of wings in insects and the presence of feathers in modern birds are unrelated to the evolution of tetrapods from fish. Similarly, the ability of mammals to live in aquatic environments does not directly support the hypothesis.
Step 3: Focus on fossil evidence. Fossil records are a key source of evidence in evolutionary biology. Transitional fossils, such as Tiktaalik, show characteristics of both fish and tetrapods, providing direct evidence of the evolutionary link.
Step 4: Understand Tiktaalik's significance. Tiktaalik is a fossil species that exhibits features of both aquatic fish (e.g., fins and gills) and terrestrial tetrapods (e.g., a neck and limb-like structures). This makes it a strong piece of evidence for the hypothesis.
Step 5: Conclude that fossil records showing transitional forms, such as Tiktaalik, best support the hypothesis that tetrapods evolved from fish. This evidence demonstrates the gradual evolutionary transition between these groups.