Tetrapod Adaptations

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson
Download our mobile app to listen on the go
Get App

Questions and Answers

What evolutionary change primarily facilitated tetrapods' transition to land?

  • Increased reliance on aquatic prey.
  • Transformation of fins into limbs capable of supporting weight. (correct)
  • Development of scales for preventing water loss.
  • Evolution of gills for extracting oxygen from the air.

Which adaptation is most directly related to the ability of tetrapods to perceive sound in a terrestrial environment?

  • Development of a lateral line system.
  • Ears capable of detecting airborne vibrations. (correct)
  • Presence of lungs for breathing air.
  • Streamlined body shape for movement.

How did the evolutionary history of tetrapods involve a combination of aquatic and terrestrial adaptations?

  • Tetrapod ancestors initially evolved limb-like fins while still primarily adapted for aquatic life. (correct)
  • Early tetrapods completely abandoned aquatic adaptations upon developing limbs.
  • Aquatic adaptations were only regained in secondarily aquatic tetrapods.
  • Terrestrial adaptations emerged independently of any aquatic ancestry.

A researcher discovers a fossil of an ancient animal possessing both limb-like fins and a functional lateral line. What conclusion can be drawn?

<p>The animal was likely transitional, adapted to both aquatic and semi-terrestrial environments. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios would present the greatest challenge to early tetrapods colonizing land?

<p>The absence of means for detecting airborne sounds and prey on land. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Tetrapod

Vertebrate animals having four limbs. Includes amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.

Tetrapod Ear Adaptation

Tetrapods evolved ears to perceive sound waves traveling through the air, an adaptation critical for terrestrial life.

Lobe-Fins to Limbs

The fins of lobe-finned fishes gradually evolved into limbs with digits, facilitating the transition to terrestrial locomotion.

Study Notes

  • Tetrapods have specific adaptations that include four limbs and feet with digits.
  • They also possess ears capable of detecting airborne sounds.
  • In one line of lobe-fins, their fins evolved to become progressively limb-like.
  • The rest of the body retained adaptations suited for aquatic life.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

More Like This

Evolution of Amphibians and Tetrapods Quiz
5 questions
Evolution of Fish to Tetrapods Quiz
40 questions
EASC 103 Lecture 6 - Dinosaur Ancestry
26 questions
Amphibians: Evolution and Adaptations
36 questions
Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Browser