In evolutionary biology, which term refers to more primitive features, such as teeth and tails, that appear in ancestral forms but may be lost or modified in descendants?

• A. Vestigial structures
• B. Derived traits
• C. Ancestral traits
• D. Analogous structures

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the key terms provided in the problem. 'Ancestral traits' refer to features that were present in ancestral forms and may be retained, lost, or modified in descendants. These traits are considered primitive and foundational in evolutionary biology.
2. Step 2: Compare 'ancestral traits' with the other terms listed. 'Vestigial structures' are remnants of features that were functional in ancestors but have lost their original function in descendants. 'Derived traits' are features that have evolved more recently and are unique to a particular lineage. 'Analogous structures' are features that serve similar functions but evolved independently in different lineages.
3. Step 3: Focus on the description in the problem: 'more primitive features, such as teeth and tails, that appear in ancestral forms but may be lost or modified in descendants.' This aligns with the definition of 'ancestral traits,' as these are foundational features inherited from ancestors.
4. Step 4: Eliminate the other options based on their definitions. 'Vestigial structures' do not fit because they refer to features that have lost their function. 'Derived traits' are newer traits, not primitive ones. 'Analogous structures' are unrelated to ancestral features, as they arise due to convergent evolution.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct term for the described features is 'ancestral traits,' as they represent primitive characteristics inherited from ancestors and may be modified or lost in descendants.