Which is the best inference about a species that disappears from the fossil record after a certain point in time? A The species became extinct. B Individuals of the species changed body form. C The species evolved into a more modern species. D Remains of individuals in the species no longer formed fossils.

## Step 1<br />The problem is asking us to make an inference about a species that disappears from the fossil record after a certain point in time. The options provided are:<br />A. The species became extinct.<br />B. Individuals of the species changed body form.<br />C. The species evolved into a more modern species.<br />D. Remains of individuals in the species no longer formed fossils.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />We need to consider each option and determine which one is the most logical inference based on the information given.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />Option A suggests that the species became extinct. This is a plausible explanation because if a species disappears from the fossil record, it could mean that all individuals of that species died out, leading to its extinction.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />Option B suggests that individuals of the species changed body form. This is not a likely explanation because changing body form does not necessarily mean that the species would disappear from the fossil record.<br /><br />## Step 5<br />Option C suggests that the species evolved into a more modern species. This is also not a likely explanation because evolution does not necessarily mean that the species would disappear from the fossil record.<br /><br />## Step 6<br />Option D suggests that remains of individuals in the species no longer formed fossils. This is not a likely explanation because the formation of fossils is not dependent on the species itself, but rather on the conditions under which the remains are preserved.