[Campbell Biology P.790] Which of the following is NOT a derived character of mammals discus... | Practice Question

Which of the following is NOT a derived character of mammals discussed in the text?

  • A: Mammary glands producing milk for offspring.
  • B: Presence of hair and a fat layer for insulation.
  • C: An ectothermic metabolism.
  • D: An efficient kidney for water conservation and waste removal.
  • E: Varied teeth types (incisors, canines, premolars, molars) adapted for chewing different foods.

Explanation

The text explicitly states that mammals are endothermic, not ectothermic. The other options mammary glands, hair/fat layer, efficient kidney, and varied teeth types are all listed as derived characters of mammals.