Which of the following differentiates bony fishes from the cartilaginous fishes?
| A: | Presence of a swim bladder in bony fishes. |
| B: | A gill cover or operculum in cartilaginous fishes. |
1. Only A is correct.
2. Only B is correct.
3. Both A and B are correct.
4. Both A and B are incorrect.
| 1. | Osteichthyes possess a swim bladder which aids in buoyancy, whereas Chondrichthyes lack a swim bladder and must constantly swim to avoid sinking. |
| 2. | Chondrichthyes have an operculum covering their gills, while Osteichthyes do not have any covering over their gill slits. |
| 3. | Both Osteichthyes and Chondrichthyes have a skeleton made entirely of bone, making them rigid and durable in aquatic environments. |
| 4. | Chondrichthyes exhibit external fertilization whereas Osteichthyes typically display internal fertilization mechanisms. |
| Statement I: | Chondrichthyes lack the capacity to regulate their body temperature. |
| Statement II: | Osteichthyes have the capacity to regulate their body temperature. |