BSC 2011: Biological Diversity - Vertebrates 2-Amniotes

Flashcards based on lecture notes covering key concepts in vertebrate biological diversity, particularly focusing on amniotes and their adaptations.

What are the key characteristics of amniotes?

Amniotes have shelled eggs, desiccation-resistant skin, thoracic breathing, water-conserving kidneys, and internal fertilization.

What adaptation allows for more efficient respiration in birds?

Birds have air sacs, allowing air to flow in one direction through their lungs.

What is the common feature shared by reptiles and birds?

Both reptiles and birds are classified under reptiles, and birds descend directly from dinosaurs.

What distinguishes mammals from other vertebrates?

Mammals have mammary glands that secrete milk, hair, specialized teeth, and a large brain.

What feature allows reptiles to thrive in dry environments?

Reptiles have desiccation-resistant skin and shelled eggs that prevent water loss.

What is the main reproductive advantage of internal fertilization in amniotes?

Internal fertilization allows for eggs to be protected by shells or enables embryo retention inside the female.

How do eutherians differ from monotremes and marsupials?

Eutherians complete their embryonic development inside the uterus with a complex placenta.

What key evolutionary trait distinguishes humans from other apes?

Bipedalism is a key trait that distinguishes humans from other apes.

What evidence suggests that humans share a common ancestor with chimpanzees?

Humans and chimpanzees share a genetic lineage and diverged from a common ancestor roughly 6 million years ago.

Which reptiles are considered lepidosaurs?

Lepidosaurs include lizards, snakes, and tuataras.