Question

which of the following statements best supports the claim that ostriches are more closely related to cardinals than to bats? choose 1 answer: a ostriches and cardinals have feathers while bats have fur. b ostriches do not use their wings to fly but cardinals and bats do. c ostriches and cardinals have wings, and so do bats.

Explanation:

To determine which statement supports the claim that ostriches are more closely related to cardinals than to bats, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Ostriches (birds) and cardinals (birds) have feathers (a key avian characteristic), while bats (mammals) have fur (a key mammalian characteristic). This shared trait (feathers) between ostriches and cardinals indicates a closer evolutionary relationship (both are birds) compared to bats (mammals).
• Option B: Ostriches not flying while cardinals and bats do does not support a closer relation between ostriches and cardinals, as it highlights a difference between ostriches and cardinals.
• Option C: All three having wings is a convergent trait (bats' wings are different in structure from birds' wings) and does not indicate a closer relationship between ostriches and cardinals.

So, Option A provides the best support.

Answer:

A. Ostriches and cardinals have feathers while bats have fur.