Which of the following exist in maximum number of terms of genera and species

Options

A. Aquatic mammals
B. Herbivore mammals
C. Terrestrial mammals
D. Carnivore mammals .

Answer

To determine which group of mammals exists in the maximum number of genera and species, we can analyze the options provided:

1. **Aquatic Mammals**:
- Aquatic mammals include groups such as pinnipeds (seals, sea lions), sea otters, polar bears, sirenians (manatees and dugongs), and cetaceans (whales and dolphins).
- While they are specialized for life in water, they are not highly diversified in terms of genera and species. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

2. **Herbivore Mammals**:
- Herbivores are mammals that primarily feed on plants.
- Although they are an important group, they also do not exhibit a high level of diversity in terms of genera and species. Thus, this option is also incorrect.

3. **Carnivore Mammals**:
- Carnivores are meat-eating mammals that depend on other animals for food.
- There are approximately 280 species of carnivorous mammals, which indicates a lower level of diversity compared to other groups. Hence, this option is incorrect as well.

4. **Terrestrial Mammals**:
- Terrestrial mammals are those that live predominantly on land.
- This group includes a wide variety of species, encompassing most herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores.
- Due to their broad habitat range and feeding strategies, terrestrial mammals exhibit the highest diversity in terms of genera and species.

Based on this analysis, the correct answer is **terrestrial mammals**, as they exist in the maximum number of genera and species.

### Summary of Steps:
1. Analyze the group of **aquatic mammals** and conclude they are not highly diversified.
2. Evaluate **herbivore mammals** and determine they also lack diversity.
3. Assess **carnivore mammals** and find they have a limited number of species.
4. Finally, consider **terrestrial mammals** and recognize their high diversity, leading to the conclusion that they exist in the maximum number of genera and species.