In the context of evolution and natural selection, what is a capability that a shark possesses that a lamprey does not?

• A. Produce slime as a defense mechanism
• B. Regenerate lost body parts
• C. Give live birth
• D. Filter feed

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of the problem: We are comparing capabilities between sharks and lampreys in the context of evolution and natural selection.
2. Identify the unique characteristics of sharks: Sharks are a group of elasmobranch fish characterized by a cartilaginous skeleton, five to seven gill slits on the sides of the head, and pectoral fins that are not fused to the head.
3. Identify the unique characteristics of lampreys: Lampreys are jawless fish with a toothed, funnel-like sucking mouth. They are known for their parasitic behavior and lack of paired fins.
4. Consider the reproductive strategies: Sharks are known for their diverse reproductive strategies, including oviparity (egg-laying), ovoviviparity (eggs hatch inside the mother), and viviparity (live birth).
5. Compare the capabilities: While lampreys lay eggs, some species of sharks have the capability to give live birth, which is a significant evolutionary adaptation that lampreys do not possess.