Question

Apoda resembles pisces in__________________________.
a. Presence of dermal scales
b. Functional eyes
c. Absence of tail
d. All of the above

Answer 1

Amphibians are ectothermic tetrapods vertebrates. Apoda is one of the three major living orders of the class amphibia.

Complete Answer:
Apoda or Gymnophiona or Caecilia is one of the three major living orders of the class amphibia. Amphibians belonging to this order are limbless and are worm-like. They possess scales and are blind.

Option a: The order Apoda, commonly known as caecilians are worm-like, legless amphibians, indistinct or hidden eyes. A unique feature of some caecilians among modern amphibians is that the dermal scales embedded in the skin. Hence, Apoda resembles Pisces in presence of dermal scales.

Option b: Functional eyes are also the characteristics of order Apoda. They are blind amphibians, but pisces possess eyes. Fish eyes contain many components similar to human eyes, but they are structured and used differently. Thus, Apoda differs from Pisces.

Option c: The absence of a tail is the peculiar characteristic of order Anura or Salientia. Their hindlimb is longer than forelimb. It includes frogs and toads. However, Apoda doesn’t possess a tail but pisces have a tail.

Option d: The similarity between Apoda and Pisces is that they both bear dermal scales on their skin.

Thus, the correct option is a) Presence of dermal scales.

Note: It is to be noted that generally, the members of the order Apoda do not possess a tail, however, some of the members may have a small tail. Thus, do not get confused between option A and C, as presence of tail in Apods is an exceptional feature only for certain animals.