Question

The authors note that microcolonies contained cells of diverse morphologies (see Figure B7.4). Which statement best explains the existence of diverse cell morphologies? O The low nutrient availability in this system resulted in diverse cell morphologies O Because cell morphologies change over time, the diverse shapes probably represent cells of different ages O Growth on the polycarbonate filter resulted in aberrant cell morphologies O Cells of different morphologies probably represent cells of different species

Answer 1

The existence of diverse cell morphologies in microcolonies is due to the wide variety of cell shapes that eukaryotic cells can have. Factors such as primary function and physical environment influence cell shape.

Step-by-step explanation:

The existence of diverse cell morphologies in microcolonies can be explained by the fact that eukaryotic cells display a wide variety of different cell morphologies.

Factors such as primary function, cytoskeleton organization, cytoplasm viscosity, cell membrane or wall rigidity, and physical pressure from the environment can all influence the shape of a eukaryotic cell.

Therefore, the cells of diverse morphologies in microcolonies are likely representing cells with different shapes based on these factors.