Geology 105 - Paleontology
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Reading Guide:

What, If Anything, is a Zebra?

Gould, S. J., 1983, What, If Anything, is a Zebra?, Hen's Teeth and Horse's Toes: Further Reflections in Natural History, New York: W.W. Norton & Co., pp.355-365.

Note: Read Chapter 4 in the textbook first!!!

Be able to answer these questions:

1. Evaluate the argument that zebras are not a monophyletic group and should therefore not be placed in the same taxonomic group. How solid is the evidence for this claim? Do you find it convincing?

2. Consider Gould's argument that classifying organisms strictly by recency of branching of lineages (as cladists do) results in taxonomic groups that defy common sense. In the example of fish, would you argue for or against the cladist viewpoint? Why?