A new sea star species has been identified in Australia. This species is a hermaphrodite that self-fertilizes and keeps its young inside its body. Other species of sea stars in this genus have both male and female sea stars. They release eggs and sperm into the water where the egg is fertilized. How does the new sea star species influence our understanding of biology?

How Do Starfish Reproduce Sexually and Asexually? - Starfish Reproduction

a
It shows that populations of organisms have a certain carrying capacity.
b
It shows that populations of organisms interact with the nonliving environment.
c
It shows that populations of organisms have individuals that form with new traits.
d
It shows that populations of organisms can separate into new species.
e
It shows that populations of organisms in a community stay the same.
f
It shows that populations of organisms share the same habitat.

d. It shows that populations of organisms can separate into new species.

The discovery of this new sea star species that reproduces differently from other species in its genus highlights the diversity and complexity of reproductive strategies in the animal kingdom. It demonstrates that populations of organisms can evolve and adapt in unique ways, leading to the formation of new species with distinct characteristics. This challenges our traditional understanding of species and reproductive biology, expanding our knowledge of the diversity of life on Earth.