Use the Following Information to Answer the Question

question 42

Multiple Choice

Use the following information to answer the question.
For several decades now, amphibian species worldwide have been in decline. A significant proportion of the decline seems to be due to the spread of the chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) . Chytrid sporangia reside within the epidermal cells of infected animals, animals that consequently show areas of sloughed skin. They can also be lethargic, which is expressed through failure to hide and failure to flee. The infection cycle typically takes four to five days, at the end of which zoospores are released from sporangia into the environment. In some amphibian species, mortality rates approach 100%; other species seem able to survive the infection.
Apart from direct amphibian-to-amphibian contact, what is the most likely means by which the zoospores spread from one free-living amphibian to another?

• A) by wind-blown spores
• B) by flagella
• C) by cilia
• D) by hyphae

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Definitions:

Adipose Tissue

A type of body fat used for storing energy and providing insulation to the body.

Collagen And Elastin

Two structural proteins found in connective tissues in the body, where collagen provides strength and elastin allows elasticity and flexibility.

Extracellular Matrix

A sophisticated mesh of proteins and polysaccharides released by cells that offer both structural and biochemical assistance to adjacent cells.

Loose Connective Tissue

Connective tissue that consists of fibroblasts and fibers scattered in a gel-like matrix.