Question 1

Which of the following is a trait that first evolved in the ancestor of all vertebrates, distinguishing them from other chordates?

Accepted Answer

Vertebral column

Question 2

Which evolutionary innovation allowed amniotes to reproduce successfully on land, and what is its primary function?

Accepted Answer

Amniotic egg; protection of the embryo from desiccation

Question 3

Which group is most closely related to mammals based on the phylogenetic tree discussed in class?

Accepted Answer

Reptiles

Question 4

Which of the following traits is shared by both amphibians and amniotes, but not by ray-finned fish?

Accepted Answer

Lungs

Question 5

The evolution of lobed fins was significant because it:

Accepted Answer

Enabled the transition from water to land by supporting body weight

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT a trait that evolved in the lineage leading to tetrapods?

Accepted Answer

Operculum

Question 7

Where on a phylogenetic tree would you indicate the evolution of segmentation?

Accepted Answer

At the base of the vertebrate lineage

Question 8

Which of the following pairs are considered sister taxa in the vertebrate phylogeny?

Accepted Answer

Mammals and reptiles

Question 9

Why is the group 'fish' considered paraphyletic rather than monophyletic?

Accepted Answer

It excludes tetrapods, which are descended from fish ancestors

Question 10

Which evolutionary trait is unique to birds among the groups listed in the phylogenetic tree?

Accepted Answer

Feathers

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the significance of the amniotic egg in vertebrate evolution?

Accepted Answer

It enabled reproduction independent of water

Question 12

Which group is defined by the presence of an operculum?

Accepted Answer

Ray-finned fish

Question 13

Which of the following evolutionary events occurred first?

Accepted Answer

Evolution of jaws

Question 14

Which trait is shared by all members of the group Gnathostomes?

Accepted Answer

Jaws

Question 15

Which of the following is a derived trait that distinguishes mammals from other amniotes?

Accepted Answer

Hair

Study Guidance: Plant Evolution and Adaptations to Land (Phylogenetics & Traits)

Study Guide - Practice Questions