[Campbell Biology P.280] According to Figure 11.21 and its caption, what is the primary role... | Practice Question

According to Figure 11.21 and its caption, what is the primary role of apoptosis during paw development in mammals?

  • A: To stimulate cell proliferation, increasing the size of the paw.
  • B: To form a solid, platelike structure for the paw.
  • C: To eliminate cells in the interdigital regions, forming individual digits.
  • D: To stain the cells a yellowish-green color for observation.

Explanation

The caption for Figure 11.21 explicitly states: 'Apoptosis eliminates the cells in the interdigital regions, thus forming the digits.' This directly aligns with option C.