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Difficulty: MediumTransitions: Contrast and Concession

While many cephalopods change their skin color and texture to blend into their surroundings, the mimic octopus (*Thaumoctopus mimicus*) employs a far more active defense mechanism by dynamically altering its physical shape to impersonate venomous marine animals like lionfish and sea snakes. Researchers initially hypothesized that this behavior was a generalized, hardwired reflex triggered by any nearby predator. ______ observations have revealed that the octopus selectively tailors its mimicry to the specific threat it encounters—for instance, adopting the shape of a predatory damselfish's natural enemy, the banded sea snake, only when attacked by damselfish.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

  1. A
    Consequently,
  2. B
    Furthermore,
  3. However,Answer
  4. D
    Subsequently,

Answer

The transition 'However,' is correct because it establishes a contrast between the initial hypothesis about the octopus's behavior and the actual observations.
The transition 'However,' is correct because it signals a contrast between the scientists' initial hypothesis (that the octopus's mimicry is an automatic, generalized response) and the newer observations (that the octopus dynamically targets specific predators with tailored responses).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the relationship between the sentences surrounding the blank.
The sentence before the blank describes an initial hypothesis that the octopus's mimicry is a generalized, hardwired reflex. The sentence after the blank presents observations showing that the behavior is actually selective and tailored to specific predators.
Understanding the logical connection between these two ideas is necessary to choose the correct transition.
2
Determine the type of transition required.
Since the observations directly challenge and contrast with the initial hypothesis, a transition showing contrast or concession is required.
Matching the logical relationship to the transition category narrows down the choices.
3
Evaluate the choices based on the identified relationship.
The word 'However' correctly signals a contrast, while 'Consequently' signals cause-and-effect, 'Furthermore' signals addition, and 'Subsequently' signals a chronological sequence.
Selecting the option that represents contrast completes the sentence logically.

Key Concept

Identifying contrast and concession transitions in a text to establish logical relationships between ideas.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Transitions: Contrast and Concession

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