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Multiple Choice
One difference between the blastula and gastrula stages of development is that __________.
A
blastula cells are more differentiated than gastrula cells
B
there are many more cells in a blastula
C
the blastula consists of more cell layers
D
the blastula is a solid ball of cells, but the gastrula is hollow
E
there is an opening from the cavity inside the gastrula to the outside
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the stages of embryonic development: The blastula and gastrula are two early stages in the development of an embryo. The blastula is an early stage that follows the morula and precedes the gastrula.
Identify the characteristics of the blastula: The blastula is typically a hollow sphere of cells, known as blastomeres, surrounding a fluid-filled cavity called the blastocoel.
Identify the characteristics of the gastrula: The gastrula stage follows the blastula and is characterized by the formation of three primary germ layers: ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. This stage involves significant cell movement and differentiation.
Recognize the key difference: The gastrula stage is marked by the formation of an opening called the blastopore, which connects the cavity inside the gastrula to the outside environment. This is a critical feature that distinguishes it from the blastula stage.
Conclude the comparison: While the blastula is a hollow ball of cells, the gastrula has an opening to the outside, which is essential for further development and differentiation of the embryo.