If bird DNA is more similar to crocodile DNA than turtle DNA is to crocodile DNA, then...
A)birds should be included amoung reptiles
B)turtles and birds should be excluded from the reptiles
C)the reptiles should be replaced by several new classes
D)each of the above represents a possible solution for taxonomists in the classification of amniotes
i think its a but it might be d. i got the impression of a from the book.
The question is asking about the relationship between bird DNA, crocodile DNA, and turtle DNA, and how it relates to the classification of amniotes. To determine the correct answer, we need to understand the information given.
The statement says that bird DNA is more similar to crocodile DNA than turtle DNA is to crocodile DNA. Based on this information, we can make a comparison:
Bird DNA → Crocodile DNA
Turtle DNA → Crocodile DNA
From this comparison, we can infer that the genetic similarity between birds and crocodiles is greater than the genetic similarity between turtles and crocodiles.
Now, let's analyze the answer choices:
A) Birds should be included among reptiles: This option suggests that birds, which have greater genetic similarity to crocodiles than turtles, should be classified as reptiles. This is a possible solution since reptiles include crocodiles and turtles.
B) Turtles and birds should be excluded from the reptiles: This option suggests that birds and turtles should not be classified as reptiles since their genetic relationship to crocodiles is different. However, since only birds have a closer genetic relationship to crocodiles, it does not support excluding turtles from the reptiles.
C) Reptiles should be replaced by several new classes: This option suggests that the entire classification system of reptiles should be changed, which is not necessary based on the information given. Changing the classification system for reptiles is not warranted by the genetic comparison given.
D) Each of the above represents a possible solution for taxonomists in the classification of amniotes: This option suggests that all of the previous options (A, B, and C) could be considered as possible solutions for taxonomists when classifying amniotes. Since option A is a possible solution based on the information given, option D is the correct answer.
Therefore, the correct answer is D) each of the above represents a possible solution for taxonomists in the classification of amniotes.