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Multiple Choice
Sea lions can be readily distinguished from seals because, in contrast to seals, they have:
A
external ear flaps (pinnae)
B
fur instead of blubber
C
a lack of front flippers
D
no hind flippers
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the anatomical differences between sea lions and seals. Sea lions and seals are both pinnipeds, but they have distinct physical features that set them apart.
Step 2: Focus on the external ear flaps (pinnae). Sea lions have visible external ear flaps, while seals do not. This is a key distinguishing feature.
Step 3: Examine the fur and blubber. Both sea lions and seals have fur, but seals rely more heavily on a thick layer of blubber for insulation, whereas sea lions have a thinner layer of blubber and rely more on their fur.
Step 4: Consider the flippers. Sea lions have strong, rotatable front flippers that allow them to 'walk' on land, while seals have smaller front flippers and move on land by wriggling their bodies. Sea lions also have hind flippers that can rotate forward, aiding in movement on land.
Step 5: Conclude by identifying the correct answer based on the anatomical feature that is unique to sea lions: external ear flaps (pinnae). This is the most distinctive trait that differentiates them from seals.