[Campbell Biology P.763] Which of the following statements correctly highlights a key differ... | Practice Question
Which of the following statements correctly highlights a key difference between sea stars Asteroidea and brittle stars Ophiuroidea as described in the text?
A: Sea stars primarily move by lashing their arms, while brittle stars move using a combination of tube feet and serpentine arm movements.
B: Brittle stars have a distinct central disk, whereas sea stars lack a defined central disk.
C: The tube feet of sea stars have a flattened disk for attachment, while brittle star tube feet lack this disk but still secrete adhesive chemicals.
D: Sea stars are known for their ability to regenerate lost arms, a capability not found in brittle stars.
Explanation
The text explicitly states: 'The base of a brittle star tube foot lacks the flattened disk found in sea stars but does secrete adhesive chemicals.' This directly supports option C as the correct distinction.