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. Based on the data provided in the passage, sea cucumbers most likely burrow in order to:

Correct answer: C. Move offshore.

A. Locate food.
B. Avoid worms
C. Move offshore.
D. Shed their spines

Explanation

They live just past the surf and as their name suggests, they burrow into the sand for protection.Some sea cucumbers position themselves in currents and catch food that flows by with their open tentacles. They also sift through the bottom sediments using their tentacles. Other species can dig into bottom silt or sand until they are completely buried. This is correct according to passage, and also as they move to many habitats.

Last updated 3 September 2026

Related questions