Question

quiz instructions:

• take this quiz after completing the chapter 5 readings.
• you will have thirty minutes and one attempt to complete this quiz
• the quiz must be submitted by 11:59pm on sunday.

question 1
non-primates have fewer digits (i.e. fingers and toes) compared to primates in order to:

climb more efficiently
have a finer sense of touch
run faster
manipulate objects

Explanation:

Analyze primate digit adaptations

Primates generally retain five digits on their hands and feet. This pentadactyl limb structure is highly adapted for grasping branches, climbing trees, manipulating objects, and enhancing tactile feedback (sense of touch).

Analyze non-primate digit reduction

Many non-primate mammals, especially cursorial (running) animals like ungulates (e.g., horses, deer), have undergone a reduction in the number of digits. Reducing the number of digits lightens the distal part of the limb.

Connect digit reduction to locomotion

A lighter distal limb decreases the rotational inertia of the leg. This adaptation allows the limb to swing faster and more efficiently, which directly helps the animal run faster.

Evaluate the given options

• climb more efficiently: Grasping digits (more digits/opposable thumbs) are needed for climbing.
• have a finer sense of touch: More digits with sensitive tactile pads provide a better sense of touch.
• run faster: Fewer digits reduce limb weight, adapting the animal for high-speed running.
• manipulate objects: Grasping hands with multiple digits are required to manipulate objects.

Answer:

• climb more efficiently
• have a finer sense of touch
• run faster (Correct answer)
• manipulate objects