[Campbell Biology P.804] Based on the information provided in the 'SUMMARY OF KEY CONCEPTS' ... | Practice Question

Based on the information provided in the 'SUMMARY OF KEY CONCEPTS' table, why are birds classified under Reptilia?

  • A: Birds possess hair and produce milk, which are defining characteristics of Reptilia.
  • B: Birds are ectothermic and lay eggs, sharing traits with other reptiles like snakes and lizards.
  • C: Birds, along with other reptiles, are amniotes, characterized by having amniotic eggs and rib cage ventilation, which are key adaptations for life on land.
  • D: Birds have a backbone and Hox gene duplication, placing them within the diverse group of Reptilia.

Explanation

The 'SUMMARY OF KEY CONCEPTS' table explicitly lists 'Reptilia' as 'One of two groups of living amniotes; have amniotic eggs and rib cage ventilation, key adaptations for life on land' and includes 'birds' within this group. This indicates that birds are classified under Reptilia because they share the defining amniote characteristics crucial for terrestrial life.