Which early fish characteristics were preadaptive for existence of life on land?Multiple select question.bony skeletonnotochordfleshy finslungsendoskeleton

The early fish characteristics that were preadaptive for existence of life on land include:

1. Bony Skeleton: The development of a bony skeleton in fish was a significant preadaptation for life on land. This provided a sturdy structure that could support the body weight in the absence of buoyancy provided by water.

2. Fleshy Fins: Fleshy, lobed fins were another important preadaptation. These fins eventually evolved into limbs with digits (fingers and toes), which were necessary for locomotion on land.

3. Lungs: Some early fish had lungs, which were used for gas exchange in oxygen-poor water. These lungs were a crucial preadaptation for breathing air on land.

4. Endoskeleton: The endoskeleton, an internal support structure of an animal body, gave the body structure and shape, and protected internal organs. This was also a significant preadaptation for life on land.

The notochord is not considered a preadaptive characteristic for life on land. It is a flexible rod-like structure found in the embryos of all chordates, and it is replaced by the vertebral column (spine) in most adults. It is more associated with early developmental stages rather than a specific adaptation for terrestrial life.