Plastic Marine Debris Was Collected from Multiple Sites in the Ocean

question 23

Multiple Choice

Plastic marine debris was collected from multiple sites in the ocean and examined with electron microscopy and next-generation sequencing.These techniques revealed microbial communities growing on the plastics.Which of the following statements is correct regarding these communities?

• A)The community within the plastic must be very similar to the community in the surrounding ocean waters.
• B)These communities are very likely to be pure cultures, as plastics have been synthesized precisely because they are resistant to microbial degradation.
• C)There are no bacteriophage that use these microbes as hosts, as viruses are rare in marine ecosystems.
• D)At least one member of the community must synthesize an enzyme to degrade the hydrocarbon comprising the plastic.

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Definitions:

Discriminatory

Showing prejudice, bias, or unfair treatment towards individuals or groups based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, or sexuality.

Human Diversity

The range of differences in human behaviors, practices, beliefs, values, and biology among individuals and groups across the globe.

Forced Sterilization

A coercive procedure that permanently ends an individual's ability to reproduce without their informed consent.

Kantian Ethics

A deontological ethical theory developed by Immanuel Kant, emphasizing duty, morality, and the categorical imperative as foundational principles.