Question

Which correctly describes the evolutionary origin and adaptive radiation of molluscs?

a. Molluscs originated from arthropods and radiated into terrestrial habitats.
b. Molluscs evolved from annelids and radiated into freshwater environments.
c. Molluscs have a polyphyletic origin, evolving independently in various marine environments.
d. Molluscs originated from echinoderms and adapted to aerial environments.

Answer 1

Molluscs are likely most closely related to annelids and have radiated into various habitats, including marine, freshwater, and terrestrial environments, adapting to diverse niches.

Step-by-step explanation:

Which correctly describes the evolutionary origin and adaptive radiation of molluscs? The most accurate statement is that molluscs are probably most closely related to organisms in the phylum Annelida, also known as segmented worms. Unlike segmented worms, molluscs do not have body segmentation and usually have a different basic body shape.

These two groups are considered to be related due to their similar developmental stages and shared features of their organ systems. The evolution and adaptive radiation of molluscs have led them to inhabit marine, freshwater, and terrestrial habitats. Molluscs have radiated into a diverse array of lifestyles and forms, including gastropods, bivalves, and cephalopods, each class adapting to specific environmental niches.