Question

from left to right: a mountain zebra, a house mouse, and a red kangaroo
based on this information, which two species are least closely related?
choose 1 answer:
a red kangaroos and mountain zebras
b house mice and red kangaroos
c mountain zebras and house mice

Explanation:

To determine the least closely related species, we analyze their taxonomic groups. Mountain zebras (A) are mammals in the order Perissodactyla (hoofed mammals). House mice (B) are mammals in the order Rodentia. Red kangaroos (C) are marsupials (a different mammalian group, not placental like zebras and mice).

• Zebras (Perissodactyla, placental) and mice (Rodentia, placental) are both placental mammals, so they share a closer common ancestor than either does with kangaroos (marsupials).
• Kangaroos (marsupials) and zebras (placental) are from distinct mammalian lineages (marsupial vs. placental), making them less closely related than the other pairs (which are both placental).

Answer:

A. red kangaroos and mountain zebras