Photo AI
A complete skeleton of Thylacoleo carnifex, a huge marsupial ‘lion’, was found in a cave in the Nullarbor Plain - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2007 - Paper 1
Question 7
A complete skeleton of Thylacoleo carnifex, a huge marsupial ‘lion’, was found in a cave in the Nullarbor Plain. Further exploration uncovered more specimens of Thyl... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A complete skeleton of Thylacoleo carnifex, a huge marsupial ‘lion’, was found in a cave in the Nullarbor Plain - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2007 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe a relative dating technique which could be used to date the extinct mammals.
Answer
A relative dating technique that can be used is stratigraphy. This method involves analyzing the layers of rock (strata) where fossils are found. By determining the position of the fossil within these layers, scientists can establish a relative age. For instance, if a fossil is found in a lower stratum than another, it is assumed to be older.
Step 2
What kind of evolution has produced similar characteristics in Thylacoleo and lions?
Answer
The type of evolution that has produced similar characteristics in Thylacoleo and lions is known as convergent evolution. This occurs when different species develop similar traits independently, often because they occupy similar ecological niches or face similar environmental challenges.
Step 3
Describe two methods by which Thylacoleo is likely to have obtained its food, and state the evidence that supports your answers.
Answer
-
Killed and ate fresh meat: Evidence for this includes the presence of killing teeth, which are adapted for bringing down prey, as well as slicing teeth for butchering meat.
-
Hunted: Thylacoleo's short, strong limbs indicate that it was likely suited for ambush rather than prolonged pursuit, facilitating effective hunting strategies against agile prey.