ANTHRO 7 Chapter Notes - Chapter 5: Pygmy Mouse Lemur, Viviparity, Marsupial
Document Summary
Closely related species tend to be similar morphologically because they share the straits acquired through descent from a common ancestor. Viviparity and lactation are traits that all placental and marsupial mammals share. The existence of such similarities means that studies of living primates often give us more insight into the behavior of our ancestors than do studies of other organisms. Natural selection favors similar adaptations in similar environments. By assessing the patterns of diversity in the behavior and morphology of organisms in relation to their environments, we can see how evolution shapes adaptation in response to different selective pressures. Humans are more closely related to nonhuman primates than to any other animal species. Share many aspects of morphology, physiology, and development. Well-developed vision and grasping hands and feet. Extended period of juvenile development and larger brains in relation to body size.
