Evolution of Whales: From Land to Sea

What does the fossil record indicate about the transformation of early whales?

• They remained primarily land-based.

• No significant changes were observed.

• They became smaller over time.

• They transitioned from small land mammals to large aquatic animals.

What is Ambulocetus often compared to due to its lifestyle?

• A lion

• A crocodile

• A fish

• A bird

Which group of animals are cetaceans most closely related to, according to genetic studies?

• Rodents

• Artiodactyls

• Primates

• Carnivores

What unique bone feature supports the aquatic adaptations of Indohyus?

• Thickened skull

• Involucrum in the ear

• Webbed feet

• Elongated tail

What does the presence of the astragalus bone in early cetaceans suggest?

• Ability to fly

• Evolution from artiodactyls

• Nocturnal habits

• Aquatic lifestyle

Why might have mammals moved from land to water according to the video?

• More food and less competition in the sea

• Escape from terrestrial predators

• Colder temperatures on land

• All of the above