Read the following statements regarding the evolution of animals: I. Jawless fish probably evolved around 350 mya. II. The Mesozoic era is known as the age of mammals. III. Dinosaurs suddenly disappeared from the earth about 65 mya. IV. The first mammals were like shrews. How many of the above statements are correct?

Step-by-step solution

Statement I is correct as jawless fish probably evolved around 350 million years ago. Statement II is incorrect because the Mesozoic era is known as the age of reptiles, whereas the Cenozoic era is known as the age of mammals. Statement III is correct as dinosaurs suddenly disappeared from the earth about 65 million years ago. Statement IV is correct as the first mammals were small and shrew-like. Therefore, exactly three statements (I, III, and IV) are correct. Answer: Three