Use the Following Information to Answer the Question

question 31

Multiple Choice

Use the following information to answer the question.
"Marine cone snails from the genus Conus are estimated to consist of up to 700 species. These predatory molluscs have devised an efficient venom apparatus that allows them to successfully capture polychaete worms, other molluscs, or in some cases fish as their primary food sources. ?. . . conotoxins from Australian species of Conus . . . have the capacity to inhibit specifically the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in higher animals." (B. G. Livett, K. R. Gayler, and Z. Khalil. 2004. Drugs from the sea: Conopeptides as potential therapeutics. Current Medicinal Chemistry 11:1715-23.)
What is the adaptive value of this toxin?
I.It would cause muscle spasms in the prey.
II.It would result in paralysis of the skeletal muscle of the prey.
III.It would stimulate digestive tract smooth muscle to cause nausea and vomiting of the prey.

• A) only I
• B) only II
• C) only III
• D) only I and II

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Definitions:

Zygote

The initial cell formed when a new organism is produced by the union of sperm and egg cells, containing genetic information from both parents.

Prenatal Development

involves the process of growth and development within the womb from the moment of conception until birth.

Imaginary Audience

A concept in psychology where an individual imagines and believes that multitudes of people are enthusiastically listening to or watching them.

Adolescent

A developmental stage that describes individuals typically between the ages of 13 and 19, characterized by significant physical, psychological, and social changes.