The Cambrian explosion not only produced an abundance of new animal species but also gave rise to the first shells,spines,and active swimmers.This suggests the important influence of ____________ in driving animal evolution.
A)photosynthetic organisms
B)atmospheric oxygen
C)carnivorous predators
D)filter-feeding organisms

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The emergence of carnivorous predators during the Cambrian explosion likely drove the evolution of many new defensive adaptations, including the development of shells and spines. Additionally, the evolution of active swimmers may have been a response to the need to escape from and outmaneuver predators. While photosynthetic organisms and filter-feeders played important roles in shaping the Cambrian ecosystem, they are less directly linked to the evolution of these specific adaptations. Atmospheric oxygen levels may have also played a role in the Cambrian explosion by allowing for the evolution of larger and more complex animal forms, but again, this is less directly linked to the development of shells, spines, and active swimmers.

The Cambrian Explosion Not Only Produced an Abundance of New