The evolution of birds has long been a difficult issue for biologists until the discovery of the Archaeopteryx fossil in 1861. This ancient bird exhibited teeth, a long tail containing 20 vertebrae, and wings with movable fingers and claws. In light of the mentioned facts, who were the ancestors of the birds?
Correct answer: D. Reptiles
- A. Insects
- B. Pisces
- C. Amphibians
- D. Reptiles
Explanation
With the exception of feathers, archaeopteryx showed resemblance to the dinosaurs (giant reptiles of past). Hence, option D is correct.Archaeopteryx shows a relation to dinosaurs by exhibiting a combination of reptilian and bird-like features. Its dinosaur-like traits include teeth, a long bony tail, and three claws on each wing, while its bird-like features are its feathers and wings, demonstrating its position as a transitional fossil between theropod dinosaurs and modern birds. Scientists now classify it as a theropod dinosaur.
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About Evolution
Evolution describes heritable change in populations over generations through variation, natural selection and adaptation. Lamarckism explains inheritance of acquired characteristics, while Darwinism explains selection of favourable inherited variations; these historical explanations must not be confused with the modern genetic account of evolutionary change.
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