If in the future the current molecular evidence regarding animal origins is further substantiated, which of the following statements would be correct with reference to fossil evidence that contradicts molecular evidence?
A) The contrary fossil evidence will be seen as a hoax.
B) The fossil evidence will be understood to have been interpreted incorrectly because it is incomplete.
C) The fossil record will, henceforth, be ignored.
D) Phylogenies involving even the smallest bit of fossil evidence will need to be discarded.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If the molecular evidence is further substantiated and contradicts the fossil evidence, it is more likely that the fossil evidence was incomplete or misinterpreted rather than being a hoax. Therefore, option B stating that the fossil evidence will be understood to have been incomplete or misinterpreted is the best answer. Options A and C are unlikely as science does not dismiss evidence as a hoax or ignore entire fields of research. Option D is extreme and unnecessary, as even small amounts of fossil evidence can still provide valuable information in constructing phylogenies.

If in the Future the Current Molecular Evidence Regarding Animal