http://www.vinsweb.org/education/elf/units/tas.html
http://www.teachersdomain.org/resources/tdc02/sci/life/stru/jaws/index.html
Teeth and Limbs:
http://www.acornnaturalists.com/Mammal-Activities-C227.aspx
Lesson Summary
- TheclassMammaliaisdistinguishedbythepresenceofhair, sweatglands, threemiddle
ear bones and a neocortex area in the brain. - There is a lot of variation in mammalian reproductive systems. Mammals consist
of both the egg-laying monotremes and those that are viviparous. The latter group
includes marsupial and placental mammals. Diversity can also be found in mammalian
mating systems. - The 5,400 species of mammals can be grouped according to anatomical features as well
as the type of habitat found in. Mammals have specific adaptations for living on land,
in trees, in water and for flight. - Non-primate mammals have an important relationship with people as well as fulfilling
necessary ecological functions.
Review Questions
- What are two ways in which monotremes differ from viviparous mammals?
- With respect to characteristics of feet, limbs and tails, what features would you expect
mammals to have for
(a) jumping?
(b)living in trees?- Give examples of three different adaptations of limbs for locomotion in mammals,
naming a mammal species, a structure and how it is adapted. - Instead of beaks, as in birds, mammals have different kinds of teeth. Incisors are
specialized for cutting and nipping, premolars for shearing and grinding, and canines
for piercing. Based on what you know of diets in mammals, name two mammal species,
the kind of diet they eat, and one type of specialized teeth that would be best adapted
for the diet. - In order to maintain a high constant body temperature, mammals need a nutritious
and plentiful diet. What are some ways that mammals have adapted to meet their
dietary requirements? How might size determine diet type, and why?