What Is the Best Evolutionary Explanation for the Presence of Flagellated

question 26

Multiple Choice

What is the best evolutionary explanation for the presence of flagellated cells in the life cycles of chytrids and their absence from other fungi?

• A) Chytrids are specialized fungi that evolved this trait from fungal ancestors that lacked flagellated cells.
• B) The presence of flagellated cells in chytrids shows that they are more closely related to animals and choanoflagellates than to actual fungi.
• C) Chytrids evolved flagellated cells as an adaptation to living in water.
• D) Flagella have evolved repeatedly in many different eukaryotic groups,and their presence is evolutionarily meaningless.
• E) Flagellated cells in chytrids are a remnant of the common ancestry of fungi,animals,and choanoflagellates that has been lost in other fungi.

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Definitions:

Mesozoic Era

A geologic era that occurred from about 252 to 66 million years ago, known for the dominance of dinosaurs and the appearance of flowering plants.

Devonian Period

An era known as the "Age of Fishes," characterized by significant evolutionary advancements in fish and the appearance of early amphibians, occurring from approximately 419 to 359 million years ago.

Gnetophytes

A phylum of gymnosperm plants with unique features distinguishing them from other gymnosperms.

Vessel Elements

Components of the xylem tissue in plants, responsible for water transportation throughout the plant.