Question

Assumed that you were a marine biologist. Choose a marine phyletic group and write a report on a diversity in the adaptations to the environment. How does the diversity and adaptations differ from the diversity encountered on land?

I chose the monophyletic group… but can’t seem to find any information for my questions.

Answer 1

Cetaceans, such as whales and dolphins, have a variety of adaptations that help them thrive in the marine environment. These adaptations differ from the adaptations found in land animals.

Step-by-step explanation:

Marine Phyletic Group: Cetaceans

Cetaceans, which include whales, dolphins, and porpoises, are a diverse group of marine mammals that have adapted to life in the water in various ways. One key adaptation is the structure of their flippers, which are specialized for swimming and maneuvering efficiently in the marine environment.

Differences from land diversity and adaptations:

1. Locomotion: On land, animals primarily move by walking or running, whereas in the water, cetaceans have evolved streamlined bodies and tail flukes for swimming.
2. Breathing: Terrestrial animals breathe air directly, while cetaceans have adapted to living in water by developing blowholes on top of their heads to breathe.
3. Sensory adaptations: Cetaceans have specialized sensory organs, such as echolocation in dolphins and baleen in filter-feeding whales, that allow them to navigate, hunt, and communicate in their aquatic habitat.
4. Thermoregulation: Contrary to land animals, cetaceans have blubber and a thick layer of fat to insulate their bodies and maintain a constant body temperature in cold water.

Overall, the adaptations of cetaceans to the marine environment differ significantly from the adaptations seen in land animals.