[Campbell Biology P.787] Birds, as a group of archosaurs, exhibit numerous adaptations for f... | Practice Question

Birds, as a group of archosaurs, exhibit numerous adaptations for flight. Which combination of features is most crucial for their ability to fly effectively?

  • A: Honeycombed, air-filled bones and wings that are remodeled tetrapod forelimbs with stiff contour feathers.
  • B: Stiff, aerodynamic contour feathers and highly sensitive ground vibration detection.
  • C: Downy feathers for insulation and vestigial pelvic and limb bones.
  • D: Loosely articulated jawbones and upturned nostrils.

Explanation

The text explicitly states: 'almost every feature of their anatomy has been modified in their adaptation to flight Figure 34.30 .' Specifically, for bone structure, 'The bones of many birds have a honeycombed internal structure and are filled with air.' For the wing, ' a A wing is a remodeled version of the tetrapod forelimb.' And for feathers, 'Contour feathers are stiff and contribute to the aerodynamic shapes of the wings and body.' These are direct adaptations to achieve effective flight.