View B categorization suggests Wiwaxia associates with what group?
Answer
Cambrian Arthropods
In contrast to views favoring a Molluscan classification (like View A), another significant assessment, represented by View B (e.g., iNaturalist data), suggests an affinity with the arthropod lineage. This view positions *Wiwaxia* within an 'Unranked clade Cambrian Arthropods.' This interpretation implies that the sclerites and spines might be homologous to the primitive external skeletal components, or cuticles, seen in early arthropods or panarthropods. If this association holds weight, it suggests that the evolution of a hard, sclerotized external integument—a hallmark of arthropods—occurred much earlier in evolutionary history than models based solely on extant forms might predict.
Related Questions
Where were fossils of Wiwaxia corrugata primarily recovered?What are the flattened, scale-like plates covering Wiwaxia's back called?What was the potential function of the long, rigid spines projecting from Wiwaxia?Which Phylum was historically proposed for Wiwaxia, compared to Solenogastres?What is the estimated typical length range for Wiwaxia individuals?View B categorization suggests Wiwaxia associates with what group?Why is the connection to Phylum Annelida not strongly supported in Wiwaxia fossils?What conflicting evidence clouds Wiwaxia's placement outside Mollusca/Annelida?If the arthropod association holds, what does this imply about Ecdysozoa evolution?View A places Wiwaxia into which specific taxonomic Order?