Question

Lobe-finned fishes: the coelacanth was only known as a fossil until 1938 when live specimens were captured off the coast of Africa. What is so interesting about the anatomy of the coelacanth?

A) Coelacanths have lobed pectoral fins, resembling limbs, indicating a potential link between fish and tetrapods.
B) They possess a unique pattern of scales, distinct from other fish species, aiding in species identification.
C) Coelacanths have a primitive respiratory system, providing insights into the early evolution of lung-breathing fishes.
D) Their internal organs, including the liver and kidneys, exhibit distinct features, suggesting ancient anatomical traits.

Answer 1

Coelacanth anatomy is fascinating because it features lobed pectoral fins that resemble the limbs of early tetrapods, hinting at the evolutionary bridge between aquatic and terrestrial vertebrates.

Step-by-step explanation:

The anatomy of the coelacanth is particularly interesting due to its lobed pectoral fins that resemble limbs suggesting a potential link between fish and tetrapods. This is the correct answer which is option A) Coelacanths have lobed pectoral fins, resembling limbs, indicating a potential link between fish and tetrapods. These lobe-finned fish are part of the Sarcopterygii clade, which includes the ancestors of amphibians. Coelacanths and lungfish are the only extant (living) members of this clade. Their fins are supported by bones similar in type and arrangement to those in the limbs of early tetrapods, indicating an evolutionary transition towards land-dwelling animals. The discovery of both coelacanths and the fossilized tetrapod-like fish Tiktaalik roseae emphasizes the connection between aquatic and terrestrial vertebrates and provides valuable insights into the evolution of limbs.