The surface of some parasitic flatworms and some insect tissues is a "syncytium" or living layer that contains many nuclei and cell organelles but is not partitioned by plasma membranes.These tissues consume food,respire,and produce wastes.Since the cell theory states that "all living things are composed of cells" what is the best statement to accompany this question?
A)These tissues are not living because they are not cellular
B)These tissues are obviously a bridge between nonliving and primitive living cells
C)The general concept of "life is cellular" still holds because these organisms still utilize cells sometime in their life,but this shows that plasma membrane partitions can be abandoned in some animals
D)This proves that a "vital force" beyond cell chemistry gives life to substances

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The existence of syncytium in some organisms shows that plasma membrane partitioning can be abandoned in certain animals but it does not contradict the cell theory that all living things are composed of cells. These tissues still utilize cells at some point in their life and perform all the necessary functions of life such as respiration, nutrition and waste elimination. Therefore, the general concept of "life is cellular" still holds true. Option A and Option D are incorrect as they are not scientifically accurate and do not align with the cell theory. Option B is also incorrect as it suggests that these tissues are not fully living, which is not true.

The Surface of Some Parasitic Flatworms and Some Insect Tissues