To determine the evolutionary history and relationships among organisms, scientists gather evidence from a wide variety of sources including paleontology, embryology, morphology, behavior, and molecular biology. A phylogenetic tree of vertebrates is shown. Which of the following statements is most consistent with the phylogenetic tree shown?
A) Birds and turtles evolved their own means of gas exchange independently of the other vertebrates.
B) Mammals are most closely related to birds because they share a direct common ancestor.
C) The common ancestor of reptiles, birds, and mammals produced amniotic eggs.
D) Crocodiles are direct descendents of ray-finned fishes since they live in the same environment.
Answer: C) The common ancestor of reptiles, birds, and mammals produced amniotic eggs.
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AP Biology
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