Question

the scientists ultimately decided to shine a high - energy blue light on the fish they were attempting to photograph. this light mimicked the light of the ocean and triggered the fishs biofluorescence. the researchers also outfitted their camera lens with a specially designed filter that removed the unwanted blue light from the image, allowing the fluorescent light to be more clearly seen. further research by dr. sparks and his team has revealed that many biofluorescent fish rely on similar filters. these filters, like internal camera filters, allow fish to perceive the biofluorescent patterns on other sea creatures. why exactly these patterns are important has yet to be determined. however, dr. sparks has presented a cogent theory, which has been well received among his peers. his compelling hypothesis is that the patterns play an important role in within - species communication. what is the meaning of conundrum as used in the passage? difficulty error goal defeat

Explanation:

The context shows that the question of why bio - fluorescent patterns are important is something yet to be determined, which is a difficult problem. "Conundrum" means a confusing and difficult problem or question. So it is closest in meaning to "difficulty" among the options.

Answer:

difficulty