The crown-of-thorns sea star, Acanthaster planci, preys on the flesh of live coral. If coral animals are attacked by these sea stars, then what actually provides nutrition to the sea star, and which chemical (besides the toxin within their nematocysts)do the corals rely on for protection?
A) medusas; silica
B) exoskeleton; silica
C) exoskeleton; calcium carbonate
D) polyps; calcium carbonate
E) polyps; silica

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Acanthaster planci sea star feeds on the flesh of live coral polyps, which provides nutrition to the sea star. The corals rely on calcium carbonate for their exoskeleton, which provides physical protection from predators.

The Crown-Of-Thorns Sea Star, Acanthaster Planci, Preys on the Flesh