Echinoderms are defined as any of a variety of invertebrate marine animals characterized by a hard, spiny covering or skin. They have attracted much attention due to their extensive fossil record, ecological importance, and bizarre body forms. Most echinoderms are extinct, but many living representatives still exist. All living echinoderms have an internal skeleton and a central cavity, but the outward appearance can vary significantly. For example, starfish and brittle stars have arms that extend from a central disk; sea lilies have a central stalk, or stem, and resemble flowers; sea cucumbers are wormlike and tend to burrow. The ways in which echinoderms move and feed are as diverse as their body forms. Table 1 lists certain echinoderms and their methods of locomotion (movement) and feeding Table 2 includes examples of echinoderms habitats around the world. According to Table 1 and Table 2, crinoids can be found feeding on plankton:

Correct answer: C. in offshore mud and ooze.

A. near the shore
B. in deep ocean trenches.
C. in offshore mud and ooze.
D. on the deep-sea floor

Explanation

The correct answer is C. According to Table 1, sea lilies are crinoids. Table 2 shows that sea lilies are most likely found in offshore mud and ooze, which best supports answer choice C.

Last updated 3 September 2026

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