[Campbell Biology P.804] Which of the following descriptions accurately characterizes Myxini... | Practice Question

Which of the following descriptions accurately characterizes Myxini hagfishes and Petromyzontida lampreys according to the provided information?

  • A: They are basal chordates that are marine suspension feeders.
  • B: They are jawless aquatic vertebrates with reduced vertebrae and specialized feeding mechanisms involving ingesting blood.
  • C: They are aquatic gnathostomes with a cartilaginous skeleton.
  • D: They are freshwater lobe-fins with both lungs and gills, sister group of tetrapods.

Explanation

The table entry for Myxini hagfishes and Petromyzontida lampreys explicitly states: 'Jawless aquatic vertebrates with reduced vertebrae; hagfishes have a head with a skull and brain, eyes, and other sensory organs; some lampreys feed by attaching to a live fish and ingesting its blood'. Option B synthesizes these key features.