Assume all life exists in a pond and it is single cell. Along comes a mutation such that we do not see a clean separation between two cells, they remain joined. In order to pass on genetic material there must be an advantage. We have twice the volume but less than twice the surface area. As both cells have lost 1/12 of surface area to be joined. The cells are passive hunters and need surface area to hunt for nutrients. You may assume the cells can share food use and storage. Explain the evolutionary advantage?
At first glance the joined cells appear to be at a disadvantage because of the reduced surface area, so per cell they catch less food. Evolution says that a branch at disadvantage should be pruned. Give me any potential explanation why the joined cells have an advantage, no matter how small and see if you can justify your proposal with math. It is meant to be a brain teaser, provided for your fun and amusement.
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