Question 1

Which of the following is a synapomorphy (shared derived trait) that distinguishes mammals from all other vertebrates on the evolutionary tree?

Accepted Answer

Production of milk

Question 2

Archaeopteryx lithographica is considered a transitional fossil. Which combination of features best supports this classification?

Accepted Answer

Feathers, elongated forelimbs, teeth, and bony tail

Question 3

Birds are highly adapted for flight. Which of the following adaptations is NOT directly related to flight in birds?

Accepted Answer

Endothermy (maintaining constant body temperature)

Question 4

Which evolutionary innovation allowed vertebrates to reproduce successfully away from water?

Accepted Answer

Amniotic egg

Question 5

A bird species is observed to have a long, slender beak and feeds primarily on nectar. Which principle of adaptation does this illustrate?

Accepted Answer

Convergent evolution of beak shape for similar diets

Question 6

Which of the following statements about the respiratory system of birds is correct?

Accepted Answer

Birds use air sacs to maintain a unidirectional flow of air through their lungs

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why birds have such acute vision compared to most other vertebrates?

Accepted Answer

They have the largest relative eye size and more color receptors, including ultraviolet

Question 8

A scientist discovers a fossil with feathers, teeth, and a bony tail. According to the evolutionary tree, to which group does this organism most likely belong?

Accepted Answer

Archaeopteryx or a similar transitional form

Question 9

Which of the following is a constraint of flight that has influenced bird evolution?

Accepted Answer

Requirement for high-energy food sources

Question 10

Which adaptation is shared by both birds and mammals but not by reptiles (excluding birds)?

Accepted Answer

Endothermy (regulation of internal body temperature)

Question 11

A bird species with strong, curved talons and a sharp beak is most likely adapted for which ecological role?

Accepted Answer

Predation on other animals

Question 12

Which of the following evolutionary events occurred first according to the vertebrate phylogenetic tree?

Accepted Answer

Appearance of a vertebral column

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the function of the bird's keeled sternum?

Accepted Answer

Attachment site for powerful flight muscles

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct sequence of evolutionary innovations in vertebrates, from earliest to most recent?

Accepted Answer

Vertebral column → jaws → bony skeleton → amniotic egg → feathers

Question 15

Which of the following equations best represents the relationship between metabolic rate ($MR$), body mass ($M$), and temperature ($T$) in endothermic birds, assuming $MR$ increases with both $M$ and $T$?

Accepted Answer

$MR = k 	imes M^{0.75} 	imes e^{aT}$

Question 16

Which of the following is a real-world example of convergent evolution in vertebrates?

Accepted Answer

Wings in birds and bats

Question 17

A mutation causes a bird species to lose its air sacs. Which of the following is the most likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

Reduced efficiency of oxygen exchange, limiting sustained flight

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why birds invest in elaborate parental care and nest building?

Accepted Answer

To increase the survival rate of their relatively helpless offspring

Question 19

Which of the following is a key difference between the eggs of amphibians and those of reptiles (including birds)?

Accepted Answer

Reptile and bird eggs are amniotic and waterproof, while amphibian eggs are not

Vertebrate Evolution and Bird Adaptations: Study Notes for General Biology

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards