Question

VISUAL SKILLS In Figure 26.4, which similarly inclusive taxon

is represented as descending from the same common ancestor

as Canidae?

(A) Felidae

(B) Mustelidae

(C) Carnivora

(D) Lutra

Short answer

(A) The option “Felidae” is false.

(B) The option “Mustelidae” is true.

(C) The option “Carnivora” is false.

(D) The option “Lutra” isfalse.

Step-by-step solution

Taxon

In the field of biology, the taxon is also known as the taxonomic unit. It is a rank given to the population of the organism of a particular group, such as species, genus, and family. It helps in the classification of an organism belonging to a particular rank.

Explanation of option (A)

The family Felidae belongs to the order Carnivora. The animals that belong to this family are obligate carnivores and occupy forested habitats. One of the examples of this taxon is the leopard.

Thus, Felidae does not show similarity with common ancestor as Canidae.

Therefore, the given statement is false.

Explanation of option (B)

The family Mustelidae belong to the order Carnivora. The animals belonging to this family show many characteristics, such as a thick neck with a short head and short legs. These similarities are similar to the ancestor of Canidae.

Thus, Mustelidae show similarity with common ancestor as Canidae.

Therefore, the given statement is true.

Explanation of option (C)

Carnivora is an order that contains many families such as Canidae, Felidae, and Mustelidae. They all possess different characteristics and contain different animals in their taxon.

Thus, Carnivora does not show similarity with common ancestor as Canidae.

Therefore, the given statement is false.

Explanation of option (D)

Mustelidae contain two genus that are Lutra and Taxidae. Both show similar characteristics to the ancestors of Canidae. So, not only a single genus, but both the genus should be correct.

Thus, along with Lutra, Taxidae also shows similarity with common ancestor as Canidae.

Therefore, the given statement is false.