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Multiple Choice
Animals probably evolved from colonial protists. How do animals differ from these protist ancestors?
A
The protists were prokaryotic.
B
The protists were heterotrophic.
C
The protists were autotrophic.
D
Animals are able to reproduce.
E
Animals have more cells than their protist ancestors, and their cells show greater specialization.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that protists are a diverse group of mostly unicellular organisms, which can be either autotrophic (capable of photosynthesis) or heterotrophic (obtaining food by consuming other organisms).
Recognize that animals are multicellular organisms, which means they consist of many cells that work together to perform various functions.
Identify that one key difference between animals and their protist ancestors is the level of cellular specialization. In animals, cells are specialized to perform specific functions, such as muscle cells for movement or nerve cells for transmitting signals.
Note that while some protists can reproduce, animals have more complex reproductive systems and processes, often involving specialized reproductive cells and structures.
Conclude that the main distinction is that animals have a higher degree of cellular organization and specialization compared to their protist ancestors, which allows them to perform more complex functions and adapt to a wider range of environments.