Scientists generally believe that no deep-sea creature can detect red light, but they need to reassess that view. Researchers recently discovered a foot-long deep-sea creature of the genus Erenna with bioluminescent red lights on some of its tentacles. These red lights, which are shaped like a common food source for small, deep-sea fish, probably function as lures to attract prey.
Summarize Argument: Counter-Position
Scientists must reconsider the belief that no deep-sea creatures can detect red light since researchers recently found a deep-sea creature that uses glowing red lights to catch small fish. This large creature has glowing red lights on its tentacles, which resemble a common food source for small deep-sea fish and likely serve as bait to attract them as prey.
Identify Conclusion
Scientists must reassess the view that no deep-sea creature can detect red light.
A
Red lights on the tentacles of a newly discovered deep-sea creature probably function as lures.
This is a premise. The stimulus uses the claim that the red lights act as lures to support the conclusion that some deep-sea creatures can see red light. The fact that small deep-sea fish are attracted to the red lights on the creature's tentacles suggests they can see red light.
B
Red lights on the tentacles of a newly discovered deep-sea creature are shaped like a common food source for small, deep-sea fish.
This is a premise. The passage explains that the red lights are shaped like a common food source for small deep-sea fish, which is why they may attract the fish. If the lights resemble the fish's usual red food, the fish are likely responding to that resemblance and can see red.
C
A foot-long deep-sea creature of the genus Erenna has been discovered recently.
This is a premise. The passage notes this discovery to support its claim that some deep-sea creatures can see red light. This newly discovered deep-sea creature uses red light to hunt deep-sea prey, which supports the conclusion because its prey seems to react to the red light.
D
Scientists generally believe that deep-sea creatures cannot detect red light.
This is context and provides background information. The passage explains what most scientists believe to help us understand the author’s view, which disagrees with them. While scientists think no deep-sea creatures can see red light, the author argues that at least some can.
E
Scientists need to reconsider the belief that deep-sea creatures cannot detect red light.
This accurately captures the argument’s main conclusion. The author argues that scientists need to "reassess" or "reconsider" their belief that no deep-sea creature can see red light. The author thinks this belief is wrong since a creature uses red light to attract deep-sea prey.