Question

which statement provides the best evidence of the relative ease with which multicellularity has evolved?
○ experimental studies have shown that in only a few months, multicellularity can be artificially selected for in some normally unicellular eukaryotic species.
○ plasmodial slime molds, an early - diverging group of protists, are multicellular.
○ multicellularity allows for nutrient and gas exchange over a larger surface area.
○ cyanobacteria and other photosynthetic species are known to form floating rafts on the oceans surface.
○ some diatom species associate in filaments; such association is a precursor to multicellularity.

Explanation:

Experimental studies showing that multicellularity can be artificially selected for in a short - time frame (a few months) in normally unicellular eukaryotic species provide direct evidence of the relative ease with which multicellularity can evolve. Other options discuss associations or functions related to multicellularity but not the ease of evolution as directly.

Answer:

Experimental studies have shown that in only a few months, multicellularity can be artificially selected for in some normally unicellular eukaryotic species.