Tiktaalik Fossils and Their Significance

Laura from the Canadian Museum of Nature introduces Tiktaalik, a significant fossil in evolutionary history. Tiktaalik, discovered in 2004 on Ellesmere Island, represents a transitional stage from fish to limbed animals, known as tetrapods. The 375-million-year-old fossils are well-preserved and housed in a climate-controlled facility in Gatineau, Quebec. Tiktaalik's anatomical features, such as its elbow joint, highlight its ability to perform push-up-like movements, marking a key evolutionary step. The fossils are available for study by scientists worldwide, contributing to our understanding of evolutionary biology.

What is the name of the ancient fish with limbs that recently became part of the Canadian Museum of Nature's collection?

• Coelacanth

• Tiktaalik

• Panderichthys

• Ichthyostega

Why is Tiktaalik considered an important fossil in evolutionary history?

• It is the largest fossil ever found.

• It was discovered in the deepest part of the ocean.

• It is the oldest known fish fossil.

• It represents a transitional stage between fish and limbed animals.

Where were the Tiktaalik fossils discovered?

• Antarctica

• Ellesmere Island in the Canadian Arctic

• Siberia

• Greenland

What significant anatomical feature does Tiktaalik possess that indicates its ability to support itself on land?

• Tail fin

• Gills

• Elbow joint

• Fins

What is the significance of Tiktaalik's elbow joint?

• It allowed Tiktaalik to swim faster.

• It enabled Tiktaalik to perform push-up-like movements.

• It helped Tiktaalik to fly.

• It was used for hunting prey.

What role does the Canadian Museum of Nature play in the preservation of Tiktaalik fossils?

• They are displayed in an open-air exhibit.

• They are kept in a climate-controlled facility.

• They are buried underground for safety.

• They are sent to various museums around the world.

Until when will the Canadian Museum of Nature curate the Nunavut fossil collection?

• Until Nunavut has its own History Museum

• Until the fossils are destroyed

• Until the fossils are lost

• Until the fossils are sold

What other types of fossils are mentioned as being part of the museum's collection?

• Fossils of marine reptiles

• Shells and fossils of real dinosaurs

• Fossils of early mammals

• Fossils of ancient birds

What is the main purpose of the climate-controlled facility at the museum?

• To store fossils temporarily

• To preserve fossils for scientific study

• To display fossils to the public

• To sell fossils to collectors

Who can study the Tiktaalik fossils at the Canadian Museum of Nature?

• Only Canadian scientists

• Visiting scientists from around the world

• Only students

• Only museum staff