Question

Select all that apply. A new sea star species has been identified in Australia. This species is a hermaphrodite that self-fertilizes and keeps its young inside its body. Other species of sea stars in this genus have both male and female sea stars. They release eggs and sperm into the water where the egg is fertilized. How does the new sea star species influence our understanding of biology? a It shows that populations of organisms have individuals that form with new traits. b It shows that populations of organisms share the same habitat. c It shows that populations of organisms interact with the nonliving environment. d It shows that populations of organisms have a certain carrying capacity. e It shows that populations of organisms in a community stay the same. f It shows that populations of organisms can separate into new species.

Answer 1

The new sea star species influences our understanding of biology in the following ways:

a. It shows that populations of organisms have individuals that form with new traits.
f. It shows that populations of organisms can separate into new species.

These options highlight the significance of the new reproductive strategy of the hermaphroditic sea star, showing how variations in reproductive traits can lead to evolutionary changes and potentially the emergence of new species.