Modern Sponges Produce Spicules to Deter Predation,but as the Earliest

question 3

Multiple Choice

Modern sponges produce spicules to deter predation,but as the earliest animals,they existed before any predators evolved; which of the following hypotheses regarding the formation of spicules is the least likely?

• A) Spicules were probably absent in the earliest sponges and evolved later as predation began.
• B) Spicules performed other tasks in early sponges, possibly structural support, and were later modified for defense.
• C) Spicules were present in some sponge species and absent in others; predation became a selection pressure that eliminated some species entirely.
• D) Much like the acquisition of cnidocytes by nudibranchs, some sponges incorporated the spicules they consume into their bodies rather than digesting them.

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Definitions:

Retirement

The process of removing an asset from service after its useful life has ended, often involving its disposal or sale.

Gain or Loss

The financial result from a transaction that leads to an increase (gain) or decrease (loss) in the asset value of a company.

Straight-line Amortization

A method of evenly spreading out the cost of an intangible asset over its useful life.

Interest Payment

The amount paid at regular intervals (often annually or semi-annually) on a debt instrument such as a bond or loan, based on the interest rate and the principal amount.