Discover the Wonders of Fiddler Crabs in Distilled Water!

What effect will placing Fiddler crabs from a saltwater environment into distilled water have on their cells?

A. The cells will shrink and lose their shape
B. The cells will absorb excess water and potentially burst
C. The cells will remain unaffected
D. The cells will multiply rapidly

Answer:

B. The cells will absorb excess water and potentially burst

When Fiddler crabs from a saltwater environment are placed in distilled water (zero salt content), their cells will undergo a process called osmosis. Osmosis occurs when water moves from an area of low concentration to an area of high concentration, in this case, from the distilled water into the cells of the crabs.

This movement of water into the cells can cause them to swell and potentially burst as they absorb excess water. The disruption in internal osmotic pressure can be harmful and may lead to the death of the crabs if they are left in the distilled water for too long.

Fiddler crabs, like other marine organisms, are adapted to survive in high-salinity environments. Placing them in a low-salinity environment like distilled water disrupts their physiological balance and osmotic pressure, leading to potential harm.

It is important to understand the adaptations of marine organisms and the impact of osmosis when considering their environment and habitat. The delicate balance of solute concentrations inside and outside their cells is crucial for their survival.