Question

which sequence places tiktaalik in the correct evolutionary order?
○ lobe - finned fish, tiktaalik, tetrapods
○ tetrapods, lobe - finned fish, tiktaalik
○ ray - finned fish, tetrapods, tiktaalik
○ lobe - finned fish, tetrapods, tiktaalik
○ tetrapods, ray - finned fish, tiktaalik

Explanation:

Tiktalik is an extinct sarcopterygian (lobe - finned fish) that is considered a transitional fossil between lobe - finned fish and tetrapods. Lobe - finned fish came first in the evolutionary timeline. Tiktalik, with its unique features (such as a wrist - like structure), is an intermediate form. Tetrapods (four - limbed vertebrates) evolved after. Ray - finned fish are a different group (Actinopterygii) and not directly in the evolutionary line leading to Tiktalik and tetrapods.

Answer:

lobe - finned fish, Tiktalik, tetrapods