Amniota

Question 1

Amniota

Answer 1

Clade of tetrapods

Question 2

Shared Derived Traits of Amniota

Answer 2

1. Amniotic egg with four extra embryonic membranes providing gas exchange, nutrient supply, protection from desiccation, and waste removal
2. Internal fertilization independent of water via specialized organs
3. Direct development

Question 3

Amniota Additional Adaptations

Answer 3

1. Water retention through thick, layered, relatively impermeable skin to reduce loss
2. Efficient lung ventilation through axial skeletal muscles associated the the rib cage lung power

Question 4

3 Classifications of Amniotes

Answer 4

Based on number of major openings in the post-eye area of the skull

1. Anapsid: lack temporal fenestrae (turtles)
2. Synapsis: one pair of temporal fenestrae (mammals)
3. Diapsid: two pairs of temporal fenstrae behind the eye sockets (reptiles)

Question 5

Two Clades of Amniotes

Answer 5

1. Diapsids (reptiles) including turtles, crocodilians, birds, and lepidosaurs (lizards and snakes)
2. Synapsids (mammals)