Look at the diagram of rock layers. What most likely happened to the sea stars on the island when the volcano suddenly erupted and destroyed most of the existing population? A The surviving sea star population decreased without any changes in form over time. B The surviving sea star population multiplied rapidly and was joined by a new form of sea star. C The surviving sea star population very slowly and gradually separated into a new form of sea star. D The surviving sea star population evolved relatively rapidly into a new form of sea star.

Step 1: Analyze the given information.<br />- The diagram shows rock layers with a volcanic eruption depicted.<br />- The question asks about the sea stars on the island when the volcano erupted and destroyed most of the existing population.<br /><br />Step 2: Evaluate the options.<br />A. The surviving sea star population decreased without any changes in form over time.<br />B. The surviving sea star population multiplied rapidly and was joined by a new form of sea star.<br />C. The surviving sea star population very slowly and gradually separated into a new form of sea star.<br />D. The surviving sea star population evolved relatively rapidly into a new form of sea star.<br /><br />Step 3: Determine the most likely outcome based on the given information.<br />- The volcanic eruption caused a sudden change in the environment, leading to the destruction of most of the existing sea star population.<br />- The surviving sea star population would have faced a sudden change in their environment due to the volcanic eruption.<br />- It is unlikely that the surviving sea star population would multiply rapidly or evolve into a new form immediately after the eruption.<br />- The most plausible scenario is that the surviving sea star population decreased without any changes in form over time.<br /><br />Answer: A. The surviving sea star population decreased without any changes in form over time.