Crocodiles, lizards, and snakes are all reptiles. However, lizards are more closely related to snakes than to crocodiles. Which statement MOST accurately describes how this relationship is explained in Darwin's Theory of Evolution?

Crocodiles and snakes are more alike since they both develop from an egg.

Lizards and snakes are more alike since both species have a recent common ancestor.

D. is responsible for most of the skin's structural strength.

Explanation:

A. contains no blood vessels.

False. The dermis contains blood vessels together embedded in it along with the sweat and sebaceous or oil glands, hair follicles, and nerve endings.

B. functions as a padding and insulation.

False. The fat layer that is located below the dermis is the one responsible for padding and insulation.

C. is divided into three distinct layers

False. The dermis is divided into only two separate layers. These are the papillary layer or the upper layer and the reticular layer or the lower layer.

D. is responsible for most of the skin's structural strength.

Yes, the dermis functions for providing the skin's structural strength because of it's thick fibrous and elastic tissue layer. This layer consists primarily of collagen and elastin that also allows for the skin's flexibility.

E. is made of epithelial tissue.

False. The dermis is made up of fibrous and elastic tissue. It is the epidermis which is composed of the epithelial tissue.