Tetrapods 1 Flashcards
1
Q
Give the general characteristics of tetrapods.
A
- Paired hind and forelimbs with digits
- Pectoral girdle separated from skull with mobile neck
- Hyomandibular bone becomes stapes conducting sound to ear
- First cervical vertebra modified to allow skull movement.
2
Q
What is a tetrapod?
A
The aquatic vertebrates moving to land from water.
3
Q
When did the first tetrapods arise?
A
Devonian period.
4
Q
What are the advantages of moving to land?
A
- Increased range in habitats & food
- Avoidance of aquatic predators & competitors
- Abundant oxygen
- Raise body temperature (accelerates metabolism)
5
Q
What are the disadvantages of leaving land?
A
- Gravity - body needs support for locomotion and prevention of lung collapse
- Need respiratory adaption for abundant oxygen
- Greater fluctuations in temperature
- Different food and methods of capture
- Reproduction
- Blood circulation - more difficult pump.
6
Q
Describe the sense organs of tetrapods.
A
- Middle ear - derived from spiracle and hymandibular is modified to stapes
- Vision - better in air (flatter lens than fish) Eyes on top of head.
