Answer:
Both molecular and morphological comparisons among dugongs and proboscideans species should be conducted
Explanation:
From a molecular biology point of view, it is possible to compare the sequences of dugongs and proboscideans and thus observe the homology level between genes of interest, it in order to establish evolutionary relationships among species. Moroever, by mass spectrometry (MS), it is possible to compare proteins in fossils >1 million years, these comparisons may shed light on the evolutionary origin of one group
The morphological and molecular analysis of dugongs and proboscideans suggests that the split occurred between 48 and 34 million years ago.
The study of fossils has suggested that manatees and dugongs are closely related to proboscideans.
The dugong belongs to the marine mammals, in the order Sirenia. The Proboscidea and Sirenia are collectively referred to as Tethytherians.
It is believed that both the organisms have originated from the sea of Tethys.
However, from the biological point of view, the genetic sequence of both the organisms cannot be compared and the homology cannot be observed.
Also, the mass spectrometry of fossils is possible, which may suggest the evolutionary relationship between Sirenians and Proboscideans.
To know more about evolutionary relationships, refer to the following link:
https://brainly.com/question/12402318
