What characteristics do humans share with other mammals?
Possess hair which is made of keratin. The evolution of mammalian keratin is believed to be independent of reptilian keratin. Hair provides insulation . Endothermic. The majority of the heat energy is used to maintain their high body temperature. 4 chambered heart. Mammary glands are used to produce milk to nourish their young. Female glands are the only functional glands. The diaphragm is a muscle that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity. 7 cervical vertebrae (neck bones) are present in most mammals. Most are viviparous though some are oviparous. An extended gestation period (uterine development) is common in most placental mammals. Teeth are imbedded in the jaw bone and come in a variety of forms. Well developed brain. Mammals developed from the therapsid ancestors during the Triassic period.
