Which statement provides the best evidence of the relative ease with which multicellularity has evolved?
A) Experimental studies have shown that in only a few months, multicellularity can be artificially selected for in some normally unicellular eukaryotic species.
B) Plasmodial slime molds, an early-diverging group of protists, are multicellular.
C) Multicellularity allows for nutrient and gas exchange over a larger surface area.
D) Some diatom species associate in filaments; such association is a precursor to multicellularity.
E) Cyanobacteria and other photosynthetic species are known to form floating rafts on the ocean's surface.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The experimental studies mentioned in option A provide direct evidence of the ease with which multicellularity can evolve in certain organisms. Option B only provides an example of an early-diverging group of protists that are multicellular, which does not necessarily indicate the ease of multicellularity evolution. Option C and D provide benefits and precursor stages of multicellularity, but do not provide direct evidence of the ease of its evolution. Option E describes the formation of floating rafts, which is not directly related to multicellularity.

Which Statement Provides the Best Evidence of the Relative Ease