GATE Mechanical 2022 Set 2 | GA Question: 6

Question

Fish belonging to species $\text{S}$ in the deep sea have skins that are extremely black (ultra-black skin). This helps them not only to avoid predators but also sneakily attack their prey. However, having this extra layer of black pigment results in lower collagen on their skin, making their skin more fragile.

Which one of the following is the $\text{CORRECT}$ logical inference based on the information in the above passage?

• A. Having ultra-black skin is only advantageous to species $\text{S}$
• B. Species $\text{S}$ with lower collagen in their skin are at an advantage because it helps them avoid predators
• C. Having ultra-black skin has both advantages and disadvantages to species $\text{S}$
• D. Having ultra-black skin is only disadvantageous to species $\text{S}$ but advantageous only to their predators

Answer 1

The passage states that fish of species $\text{S}$ in the deep sea have ultra-black skin, which helps them avoid predators and sneakily attack their prey. This indicates that ultra-black skin provides ${\color{DarkGreen} \text{advantages}}$ for species $\text{S}$ in terms of survival and hunting.

However, it also mentions that the extra layer of black pigment results in lower collagen in their skin, making it more fragile. This fragility of the skin can be considered a ${\color{Red} \text{disadvantage}}$ for species $\text{S}.$

Therefore, having ultra-black skin has both positive (avoiding predators and attacking prey) and negative (skin fragility) aspects for species $\text{S}.$

Correct Answer: C