A necropsy (post-mortem analysis)of a marine sea star that died after it was mistakenly placed in fresh water would likely show that it died because

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Marine sea stars are adapted to live in saltwater, which makes them hyperosmotic to fresh water. Hyperosmotic animals have a higher concentration of solutes (such as ions) inside their body fluids than the surrounding environment. In fresh water, water molecules tend to move into their bodies in an attempt to balance the concentration gradient, causing a net influx of water. This process leads to the lysis of cells and ultimately death. The sea star's inability to osmoregulate effectively in fresh water was the cause of its death.

A Necropsy (Post-Mortem Analysis)of a Marine Sea Star That Died