Fossils provide crucial information about the history of plants and animals, particularly regarding their evolution and changes over time. Here’s how the statements relate to what fossils reveal:
-
Animals and plants have changed only recently: This statement is not accurate in the context of fossil evidence. Fossils demonstrate that both plants and animals have undergone significant changes over millions of years.
-
Animals and plants have changed over time: This statement is accurate. Fossils document changes in anatomy, size, and form of various species. The fossil record shows transitions between different groups of organisms and can indicate how species adapted to changes in their environment.
-
Animals and plants have not developed together: This statement is misleading. While animals and plants can evolve separately, they often co-evolve and influence each other. Fossils can show how certain plant species have adapted to support specific animal species and vice versa.
-
Animals and plants have not changed over time: This statement is incorrect. Fossil evidence clearly shows that both plants and animals have evolved over geological time, with many species going extinct and new ones arising.
In summary, the most accurate description based on fossil evidence is that animals and plants have changed over time. Fossils reveal a rich history of life on Earth, demonstrating the gradual and sometimes abrupt evolution of species in response to environmental changes and interactions.