Final answer:
The amniote egg has several features including an amnion, is characteristic of reptiles, and has a mineralized shell, making the correct answer 'D. all of the above'.
Step-by-step explanation:
The amniote egg characteristics include an amnion, is typical of reptiles, and sports a mineralized shell. Therefore, the answer to the question is D. all of the above.
Reptiles and Birds: Amniote eggs are essential for the successful terrestrial lifestyle of reptiles, birds, and certain mammals. These eggs are protected by the amnion, allowing them to develop in a less water-dependent environment, which distinguishes them from amphibians and their shell-less eggs.
Amniotic Eggs: These protective structures, which include the eggshell and extraembryonic membranes like the chorion and yolk sac, facilitate the exchange of gases, and sequester wastes while providing nutrients and hydration to the developing embryo inside the egg.