Chp 34 Vertebrates 2-Amniotes

Flashcards based on the key concepts and objectives covered in the lecture on vertebrates and amniotes, tailored for exam preparation.

What are the major clades of vertebrates discussed in the lecture?

Cyclostomata, Chondrichthyes, Actinopterygii, Sarcopterygii, Amphibia, Reptilia, Mammalia.

List the adaptations that allowed early tetrapods to transition to life on land.

Structural support, changes in locomotion, ability to exchange gases in air.

What adaptations allowed amniotes to thrive in dry environments?

Amniotic egg, internal fertilization, desiccation-resistant skin, thoracic breathing.

What are the main groups of living reptiles?

Turtles, Lepidosaurs, Crocodilians, Birds.

Define Monotremes, Marsupials, and Eutherians in terms of mammals.

Monotremes lay eggs; Marsupials develop their young in a pouch; Eutherians have a complex placenta for prolonged gestation.

What is the significance of bipedalism in human evolution?

Bipedalism is important for locomotion and is a defining characteristic of human evolution.

What are the defining characteristics of the genera Australopithecus and Homo?

Australopithecus spp exhibit bipedal locomotion while Homo spp include species such as H. erectus and H. sapiens, with advanced tool use.

Describe the evolutionary relationship of humans.

Many species of humans coexisted, with Homo sapiens originating in Africa.

What are key innovations of amniotes?

Shelled amniotic egg, desiccation-resistant skin, thoracic breathing, water-conserving kidneys, and internal fertilization.

What are the air sacs in birds used for?

Air sacs allow for efficient breathing during flight and facilitate gas exchange.

How do birds' lungs compare to mammals' lungs?

Birds have a unidirectional airflow through their lungs, allowing for efficient oxygen uptake even during exhalation.

What skin adaptation do amniotes have to conserve water?

Desiccation-resistant skin.

How are mammary glands significant to mammals?

Mammary glands secrete milk to nourish young.

What is the role of mammalian teeth?

Mammalian teeth are highly specialized for different diets including omnivory, carnivory, and herbivory.

What types of circulatory systems do birds possess?

Birds have double circulation with a four-chambered heart.

What is unique about the metabolism of mammals?

Mammals are endothermic, which allows for a high metabolism and the ability to maintain body temperature.

How do Eutherians differ from Monotremes and Marsupials in terms of reproduction?

Eutherians have a complex placenta for prolonged gestation; Monotremes lay eggs, and Marsupials give birth to underdeveloped young that further develop in a pouch.

What are some characteristics of primates?

Primates have large brains, binocular vision, and complex social behaviors.

What classification do humans belong to within primates?

Humans belong to the group of anthropoids within primates.