Question

The mammalian evolved missile ear evolved from the ___ of more primitive animals.

A) Gills
B) Tail
C) Fins
D) Jaw

Answer 1

The bones of the mammalian middle ear, specifically the malleus and incus, evolved from the primitive jaw bones known as the articular and quadrate bones, respectively.

Step-by-step explanation:

The mammalian middle ear bones evolved from the jaws of more primitive animals. In reptiles, the stapes are part of the jaw and skull structure, but in mammals, the malleus and incus are derived from the articular and quadrate bones, respectively. These bones form part of the mammalian middle ear and play a critical role in hearing. Therefore, the correct answer to the question, "The mammalian evolved middle ear evolved from the ___ of more primitive animals," is D) Jaw.