Question

which statement is supported by the data in the diagram?
a. organisms are identifiable in the early stages of development.
b. diverse species reproduce in the same manner.
c. diverse species are related through a common ancestor.
d. diverse species all develop in the same amount of time.

Explanation:

• Option A: In the early stages (stage 1 - 3), the embryos of fish, tortoise, chicken, rabbit, and human look very similar. They are not easily identifiable as different species. So, this option is incorrect.
• Option B: The diagram shows embryos of different species. Fish are oviparous (lay eggs in water), tortoises are oviparous (lay eggs on land), chickens are oviparous (lay eggs), rabbits are viviparous (give birth to live young), and humans are viviparous. Different species have different reproductive methods. So, this option is incorrect.
• Option C: The similarity in the early - stage embryos of diverse species (fish, tortoise, chicken, rabbit, human) suggests that they may have a common ancestor. This is in line with the concept of evolution. So, this option is correct.
• Option D: Different species have different gestation or development periods. For example, the development time of a fish is different from that of a human. The diagram does not provide information about the time of development. So, this option is incorrect.

Answer:

C. Diverse species are related through a common ancestor.