Multiple Choice
Which of the following is among the earliest known vertebrates?
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32. Vertebrates
Chordates
Multiple Choice
Which of the following organisms is most closely related to the ancestor of modern amphibians?
A
Archaefructus sinensis
B
Coccosteus cuspidatus
C
Dushantuophyton
D
Kimberella
E
Tiktaalik
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the evolutionary context: Modern amphibians are part of the group called tetrapods, which evolved from lobe-finned fish. The transition from water to land is a key evolutionary step in this lineage.
Identify the characteristics of Tiktaalik: Tiktaalik is a genus of extinct sarcopterygian (lobe-finned fish) from the late Devonian period, known for its features that are intermediate between fish and tetrapods.
Compare Tiktaalik to the other organisms: Tiktaalik has both fish-like and tetrapod-like features, such as a flat skull, eyes on top of its head, and limb-like fins, which are indicative of its role as a transitional form.
Evaluate the evolutionary significance: Tiktaalik is considered a crucial link in the evolution of vertebrates from aquatic to terrestrial life, making it closely related to the ancestor of modern amphibians.
Conclude based on evolutionary evidence: Given its transitional features and evolutionary significance, Tiktaalik is the organism most closely related to the ancestor of modern amphibians among the options provided.
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