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Multiple Choice
The first vertebrates to live on land were __________.
A
conodonts
B
reptiles
C
chondrichthyans
D
mammals
E
amphibians
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the evolutionary timeline of vertebrates: Vertebrates are animals with a backbone, and their evolution from aquatic to terrestrial life is a significant event in the history of life on Earth.
Identify the characteristics of amphibians: Amphibians are a class of vertebrates that include frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts. They are known for their ability to live both in water and on land, which is a key adaptation for terrestrial life.
Recognize the role of amphibians in the transition to land: Amphibians were the first vertebrates to make the transition from water to land. They evolved from lobe-finned fish and developed adaptations such as lungs and limbs to survive in terrestrial environments.
Differentiate amphibians from other vertebrate groups: Conodonts are extinct jawless fish, reptiles are more advanced land vertebrates, chondrichthyans are cartilaginous fish like sharks, and mammals are warm-blooded vertebrates with hair and mammary glands. None of these groups were the first to live on land.
Conclude that amphibians were the first vertebrates to live on land, based on their evolutionary adaptations and historical timeline.