[Campbell Biology P.1029] Which of the following statements about tardigrades and anhydrobios... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements about tardigrades and anhydrobiosis, as described in the text, is FALSE?

  • A: In their active, hydrated state, tardigrades contain approximately 85% water by weight.
  • B: Dehydrated tardigrades can survive with less than 2% water content.
  • C: Rehydrated tardigrades become active and feed within minutes.
  • D: Anhydrobiosis allows tardigrades to survive in an inactive state for a decade or more.

Explanation

The text explicitly states that 'within hours the rehydrated tardigrades are moving about and feeding,' which contradicts the option claiming 'within minutes.' All other statements are directly supported by the text: tardigrades in their active state contain 'about 85% water by weight,' can dehydrate to 'less than 2% water,' and survive in an inactive state 'for a decade or more.'