Question

The sketch shows a rynchosaur, an extinct animal that is known only from fossils. There has been much debate about the classification of these creatures. Some scientists suggest that they belong with primitive amphibians, and some think they are related to snakes and lizards.The data equally support both cases.

mc025-1.jpg

Which statement best explains how to draw a cladogram that includes the rynchosaur?A.Draw the cladogram for amphibians.
B.Draw the cladogram for reptiles.
C.Draw two cladograms, both showing the traits, and leave it as a hypothesis.
D.Draw two cladograms, both showing the traits, and have scientists vote.

Answer 1

its C.Draw two cladograms, both showing the traits, and leave it as a hypothesis

Answer 2

We reject the options a) and b) since the question says that the data supports "equally" both cases - so we have no basis for making a choice either way.

Further, in science the decisions are reached based on facts, not voting, so we also reject the answer D .

We are left with the answer C and this is also the best practice in science - when unsure, leave it as a hypothesis.