Amniotes are a group of vertebrate animals characterized by the presence of an amniotic egg, which allows them to reproduce on land. The unique trait of amniotes is the presence of this specialized egg, which has several membranes (including the amnion) that protect the developing embryo and allow for gas exchange.
The shared trait of amniotes is the presence of several key anatomical and evolutionary characteristics, including:
1. Well-developed lungs: Amniotes possess efficient lungs that enable them to breathe air, making them well-suited for terrestrial life.
2. Impermeable skin: Amniotes have a waterproof and protective skin, typically covered in scales, feathers, or hair that helps prevent excessive water loss and protects them from external threats.
3. Fertilization within the female reproductive tract: Unlike most other vertebrates, amniotes have internal fertilization, where the sperm fertilizes the egg inside the female's body.
4. Advanced kidney function: Amniotes have specialized kidneys that can effectively concentrate urine, conserving water within their bodies.
5. Limb adaptations for terrestrial locomotion: Amniotes have limbs adapted for different forms of terrestrial locomotion, such as walking, running, climbing, or flying.
These shared traits have contributed to the successful colonization and diversification of amniotes in various terrestrial habitats, enabling them to adapt to a wide range of ecological niches.
unique and shared trait of amniotes
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