Use the following to answer questions :
Refer to figure below.
-Which synapomorphy unites the pigeon and the lizard?
A) Feathers
B) A gizzard
C) Fur
D) Keratinous scales
E) Mammary glands

Question

Use the following to answer questions :
Refer to figure below. 
-Which synapomorphy unites the pigeon and the lizard?
A) Feathers 
B) A gizzard 
C) Fur 
D) Keratinous scales 
E) Mammary glands

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Both pigeons and lizards possess keratinous scales, which is a synapomorphy (shared derived characteristic) that unites them. Feathers (A) are a synapomorphy unique to birds, fur (C) to mammals, and mammary glands (E) to mammals as well. A gizzard (B) is found in some birds and aids in digestion, but it is not a shared characteristic between pigeons and lizards. Therefore, the best choice is D.

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