Marsupial mammals give birth to young that complete their development in a pouch on the mother's abdomen. All the native mammals of Australia are marsupials, while these types of mammals are absent or uncommon on other continents. This observation is an example of
a. Developmental evidence for evolution
b. Biogeographic evidence for evolution
c. Genetic evidence for evolution
d. Fossil evidence for evolution
e. Not useful evidence for evolution

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of evolution and the types of evidence that support it. Evolution is the process by which species change over time through mechanisms like natural selection, genetic drift, and mutation. Evidence for evolution can come from various fields, including biogeography, genetics, fossils, and developmental biology.
2. Step 2: Analyze the problem statement. It mentions that marsupial mammals are native to Australia and are uncommon or absent on other continents. This distribution pattern of species is a key clue in determining the type of evidence being described.
3. Step 3: Recall the definition of biogeographic evidence for evolution. Biogeography is the study of the geographic distribution of species and ecosystems. It provides evidence for evolution by showing how species have adapted to different environments and how geographic isolation can lead to speciation.
4. Step 4: Compare the other options provided in the question. Developmental evidence refers to similarities in embryonic development across species. Genetic evidence involves DNA and molecular similarities. Fossil evidence involves remains or imprints of organisms from the past. None of these directly address the geographic distribution of species.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the observation of marsupials being native to Australia and uncommon elsewhere is an example of biogeographic evidence for evolution, as it highlights how geographic isolation has influenced the distribution and evolution of species.

Key Concepts

Marsupial Reproduction

Marsupial mammals, such as kangaroos and koalas, give birth to relatively undeveloped young that continue their growth in a pouch. This unique reproductive strategy allows for a shorter gestation period and provides a safe environment for the young to develop while being nourished by the mother.

Biogeography

Biogeography is the study of the distribution of species and ecosystems in geographic space and through geological time. It helps explain why certain species, like marsupials, are predominantly found in specific regions, such as Australia, and how geographical barriers influence evolutionary processes.

Evidence for Evolution

Evidence for evolution includes various types of data that support the theory of evolution, such as developmental, biogeographic, genetic, and fossil evidence. In this context, the unique presence of marsupials in Australia serves as biogeographic evidence, illustrating how species adapt and evolve in response to their environments.