The reason their exoskeletons cannot protect the corals from sea stars is that the sea star
A) is immune to the toxin of the nematocysts.
B) thorns are sharp and toxic.
C) tubefeet act as tiny syringes that suck the corals out of their exoskeletons.
D) stomach can be everted, and can release digestive juices directly onto the corals.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The reason the exoskeletons cannot protect the corals from sea stars is that the sea star stomach can be everted, and it releases digestive juices directly onto the corals. The toxins of nematocysts are not relevant, and the sea star thorns do not penetrate the exoskeletons. Additionally, the sea star's tube feet do not act as tiny syringes that suck the corals out of their exoskeletons.

The Reason Their Exoskeletons Cannot Protect the Corals from Sea