The vast majority of animals that ever existed are now extinct, but Tereza Jezkova and John Wiens wondered which variables were most important in driving the diversification of species that exist today. Why are there so many species in some phyla, such as Cnidaria (see photo), but so few in others, such as Ctenophora? Based on your reading of this chapter, propose at least five traits that you think might have been most important in triggering diversification within phyla (examples: origin of hearing, origin of internal fertilization).

Verified step by step guidance

1. 1. The first step is to understand the concept of diversification within phyla. Diversification refers to the process by which a species evolves into two or more different forms. These forms then co-exist and continue to evolve independently.
2. 2. Next, consider the traits that could potentially trigger diversification. These traits should be significant enough to cause a species to evolve into different forms. For example, the origin of hearing could have allowed some species to better adapt to their environment, leading to diversification.
3. 3. Another trait to consider is the origin of internal fertilization. This could have given some species a reproductive advantage, leading to diversification. Other traits could include the development of different feeding strategies, the ability to live in various habitats, or the evolution of different defense mechanisms.
4. 4. Now, apply these considerations to the specific phyla mentioned in the question. For example, Cnidaria includes species like jellyfish and corals, which have a wide range of forms and habitats. This could be due to a variety of traits, such as the ability to sting prey or predators, the ability to live in both deep and shallow water, or the ability to form symbiotic relationships with other organisms.
5. 5. On the other hand, Ctenophora, also known as comb jellies, are less diverse. This could be due to a lack of significant traits that would trigger diversification. For example, they might not have developed as many different feeding strategies or defense mechanisms as Cnidaria.