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Multiple Choice
Which statement is correct with regard to the origins of multicellular organisms?
A
Multicellular organisms appeared before any unicellular life forms.
B
Multicellular organisms are thought to have evolved from colonial unicellular ancestors that began to specialize and cooperate.
C
All multicellular organisms evolved independently from different prokaryotic ancestors.
D
The transition to multicellularity required the immediate development of complex organ systems.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of the question: The problem is asking about the origins of multicellular organisms and provides multiple statements. The goal is to identify the correct statement based on biological evidence and theories.
Recall the concept of multicellularity: Multicellular organisms are thought to have evolved from unicellular ancestors. Specifically, colonial unicellular organisms are believed to have started cooperating and specializing, leading to the transition to multicellularity.
Evaluate the first statement: 'Multicellular organisms appeared before any unicellular life forms.' This is incorrect because unicellular life forms existed first and are the precursors to multicellular organisms.
Evaluate the second statement: 'Multicellular organisms are thought to have evolved from colonial unicellular ancestors that began to specialize and cooperate.' This aligns with scientific evidence and is considered the correct answer.
Evaluate the remaining statements: 'All multicellular organisms evolved independently from different prokaryotic ancestors' is incorrect because multicellularity evolved multiple times but not independently from prokaryotic ancestors. 'The transition to multicellularity required the immediate development of complex organ systems' is also incorrect because the transition was gradual, starting with simple cooperation and specialization.