Please Use the Following Information to Answer the Question(s) Below

question 59

Multiple Choice

Please use the following information to answer the question(s) below.
Traditionally, whales and hippopotamuses have been classified in different orders, the Cetacea and the Artiodactyla, respectively. Recent molecular evidence, however, indicates that the whales' closest living relatives are the hippos. This has caused some zoologists to lump the two orders together into a single clade, the Cetartiodactyla. There is no consensus on whether the Cetartiodactyla should be accorded order status or superorder status. This is because it remains unclear whether the whale lineage diverged from the lineage leading to the hippos before or after the other members of the order Artiodactyla (pigs, camels, etc.) diverged (see Figure 20.5) . Figure 20.5
-It was once thought that cetaceans had evolved from an extinct group of mammals called the mesonychids. If, in the future, it is determined that some organisms currently classified as cetaceans did actually evolve from mesonychids, whereas other cetaceans evolved from artiodactyl stock, then what will be true of the order Cetacea?

• A) It will be paraphyletic.
• B) It will be polyphyletic.
• C) It will need to be modified if classification is to reflect evolutionary history.
• D) A and C
• E) B and C

---

Definitions:

Public Transportation

A system of vehicles such as buses and trains that operate at regular times on fixed routes and are available for use by the public.

Auto Insurance

Insurance policy for cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other road vehicles, providing financial protection against physical damage, theft, and liability resulting from collisions.

Barcelona

A city in Spain known for its unique architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture.

Los Angeles

A large city in California, known for its entertainment industry, diverse culture, and significant economic contributions.