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These organisms glow because of a process known as bioluminescence. During this process, a chemical reaction produces light energy that the organism can then emit. A substance known as a luciferase helps a luciferin molecule release this light energy as it reacts with oxygen. In some comb jellies, this chemical reaction is activated when calcium is present. The bioluminescence chemical reaction is shown in Figure 1.
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Bioluminescence can occur in different ways, depending on the organism, but a few factors are common to all bioluminescent organisms. For example, oxygen is a reactant that is always needed. This element is absorbed through the thin cell membranes of the organism. Table 1 summarizes how bioluminescence can be used in different ways.
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Scientists are studying the genes needed for bioluminescence in comb jellies. In one experiment, a researcher injected the DNA needed for bioluminescence into eight rabbit embryos. The embryos were then placed back inside the mother, where they developed normally. When the eight rabbits were born, it was found that two of them had the ability to bioluminesce. Scientists suggest that similar bioluminescent products will soon be possible for human use.
1
Some of the members of a certain population of jellyfish carry genes that allow them to produce quick bursts of light over a short period of time. Which statement describes how this trait will most likely affect this population of jellyfish in future generations?
A
The percentage of jellyfish with the genes for producing quick bursts of light should increase over time because jellyfish with these genes will be more likely to avoid predators.
B
The percentages of jellyfish with and without the genes for producing quick bursts of light should not change because all jellyfish in this population will be better able to hunt prey.
C
The percentage of jellyfish with the genes for producing quick bursts of light should decrease because these jellyfish will be more easily caught by predators.
D
The genes for producing quick bursts of light should not give any advantage or cause any harm to the jellyfish with these genes.
1 answer
The correct statement is:
A. The percentage of jellyfish with the genes for producing quick bursts of light should increase over time because jellyfish with these genes will be more likely to avoid predators.
This statement is based on the understanding that if the ability to produce quick bursts of light helps jellyfish evade predators, those jellyfish are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on the genes for bioluminescence to future generations.
