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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about cnidarians is correct?
A
Cnidarians primarily feed by photosynthesis.
B
Cnidarians capture prey using specialized stinging cells called nematocysts.
C
Cnidarians absorb nutrients directly through their body surface.
D
Cnidarians are filter feeders that strain food particles from water.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the key characteristics of cnidarians: Cnidarians are aquatic animals that belong to the phylum Cnidaria. They include jellyfish, corals, sea anemones, and hydras. They are known for their radial symmetry and specialized stinging cells called nematocysts.
Clarify the feeding mechanism of cnidarians: Cnidarians are carnivorous and capture prey using nematocysts, which are specialized cells located on their tentacles. These cells contain toxins that immobilize prey.
Eliminate incorrect options: Cnidarians do not primarily feed by photosynthesis, as they are not autotrophic organisms. They rely on capturing prey for nutrition. Additionally, they do not absorb nutrients directly through their body surface or act as filter feeders.
Focus on the correct statement: The correct answer is that cnidarians capture prey using specialized stinging cells called nematocysts. This is a defining feature of their feeding strategy.
Summarize the reasoning: By understanding the biology of cnidarians and their feeding mechanism, it is clear that the correct statement aligns with their use of nematocysts to capture prey.