Answer:
Among the options you provided, the lion is most similar to tigers due to the following reasons:
1. Taxonomic Classification: Both tigers (Panthera tigris) and lions (Panthera leo) belong to the same genus, Panthera, and the same family, Felidae. They are closely related species within the same group of large cats.
2. Physical Characteristics: Tigers and lions share several physical characteristics. They have similar body structures, with muscular bodies, sharp claws, and powerful jaws. Both species also have a similar coloration pattern, with a coat covered in distinctive dark stripes.
3. Behavior and Ecology: Tigers and lions exhibit comparable behaviors and ecological roles. They are both apex predators, occupying the top of their respective food chains. They are solitary animals, although lions are known for forming social groups called prides, while tigers are typically solitary hunters.
4. Habitat and Range: Historically, both tigers and lions had overlapping ranges across parts of Asia and Africa. However, due to habitat loss and human activities, their distributions have become more fragmented, and their current ranges are mostly separate. Nonetheless, their ecological preferences for habitats such as grasslands, forests, and savannas are similar.
It's worth noting that the other options you mentioned, such as the aardwolf, coyote, grey wolf, and whale, are not as closely related to tigers as lions are. They belong to different taxonomic families and have distinct physical attributes and ecological roles.