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Key: The shaded bones are the ones that touched the ground.

1. The changes in the arrangement of the foot bones of horses support Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection. Explain how the arrangement of the foot bones of Eohippus could have evolved into the arrangement of the foot bones of Equus.
(6 points)

2. Describe two changes to the bones that have taken place over the past 50 million years.
(2 points)

3. Eohippus lived in swampy areas with soft mud. Explain one advantage to Eohippus of the arrangement of bones in its feet.
(2 points)

Note: The terms "Eohippus," "Mesohippus," "Merychippus," and "Equus" refer to different stages in horse evolution.
Time Scale:
- Eohippus: 50 million years ago
- Mesohippus: 35 million years ago
- Merychippus: 25 million years ago
- Equus: 5 million years ago



Answer :

GinnyAnswer

Final answer:

The evolution of horse foot bones from Eohippus to Equus supports Darwin's theory; changes over 50 million years involve teeth development and foot adaptations, benefiting Eohippus in swampy areas.


Explanation:

The changes in the arrangement of the foot bones of horses from Eohippus to Equus support Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection. Eohippus had more toes touching the ground, while Equus evolved to have only one toe (hoof) for speed and running efficiency.

Two changes that have occurred in the bones over the past 50 million years include the development of longer molar teeth and the degeneration of outer phalanges on the feet to adapt to grazing habits and escape predators.

Eohippus had an advantage in swampy areas with soft mud due to the arrangement of bones in its feet, providing better support and mobility in such environments.


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