Sharks and rays belong to class

Options

A. Osteichthyes
B. Chondrichthyes
C. Cyclostomata
D. Amphibian

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks to identify the class to which sharks and rays belong.

2. **Identifying the Groups**: We need to analyze the four groups mentioned:
- **Osteichthyes**: This group is known as bony fishes, characterized by having an endoskeleton made of bone.
- **Chondrichthyes**: This group is known as cartilaginous fishes, characterized by having an endoskeleton made of cartilage.
- **Cyclostomata**: This group consists of jawless vertebrates, which have a circular mouth and lack jaws.
- **Amphibia**: This group includes amphibians, which require water for reproduction.

3. **Examples of Each Group**:
- **Osteichthyes**: Example includes flying fish (Exocetus).
- **Chondrichthyes**: Examples include sharks and rays (e.g., stingray, electric ray).
- **Cyclostomata**: Examples include lamprey and hagfish.
- **Amphibia**: Examples include frogs and toads.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the characteristics and examples provided, sharks and rays fall under the category of cartilaginous fishes, which is the class **Chondrichthyes**.

5. **Final Answer**: Therefore, sharks and rays belong to the class **Chondrichthyes**.

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