Testudines Assignment | Online Assignment

For this assignment, I would like for you to take a more in-depth look at a group of organisms (at the family level or below) of your choice. This is your opportunity to learn more about a group of organisms, their evolutionary relationships, biology, and ecology. Your paper should be written in APA format. If you are unfamiliar with this style, please see: https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01/ Or visit the BCC writing center. You should cite at least 5 references from a variety of sources. At least one of these should be a peer-reviewed scientific paper and NONE of them should be Wikipedia. Your paper should address the following: 1) Taxonomic classification of your organism 2) Evolutionary relationships. What are the closest living relatives of your group of organisms? Include a phylogenetic tree! 3) Describe the basic biology of the organism – what is its body plan? How is it modified as compared to other organisms in the same phylum? (include figures as needed). Demonstrate an understanding of biological terminology and anatomical/physiological concepts. 4) Explain the ecological relationships of your organism. Where does it live? What does it eat? Who eats it? What role does it play in the ecosystem? Is it involved in any symbiotic relationships? How does it reproduce? What special adaptations does this organism have to its environment? 5) What is the current research involving this organism? Are there unanswered questions? Are there dangers (human caused or other) facing this organism? You may include pictures, diagrams, etc. Please make sure that EVERYTHING is cited as necessary.