What can the study of embryos reveal about living organisms?

The study of embryos provides valuable insights into the concept of common ancestry among vertebrate species. During early stages of development, many vertebrate embryos exhibit remarkable similarities in their physical structures, such as the presence of pharyngeal arches and a similar body plan. This suggests that these diverse species share a common evolutionary ancestor.

By analyzing the developmental patterns and anatomical features of embryos from various vertebrates, scientists can trace back evolutionary relationships and identify how different species may have diverged from shared ancestors over time. This evidence of similarity in early development supports the theory of evolution and the idea of common descent, highlighting the interconnectedness of life on Earth.

In contrast, the speed of species evolution, environmental adaptations, and lifespan indicators do not directly pertain to the specific insights that embryonic development can provide regarding shared ancestry.