The larval stage in Asterias is :
(a). Absent
(b). Free-swimming
(c). Bilaterally
(d) Radially symmetrical

1)Only (a)
2) (b) & (c)
3) (b) & (d)
4) Only (c)

Options

A. Only (a)
B. (b) & (c)
C. (b) & (d)
D. Only (c)

Explanation

To solve the question regarding the larval stage in Asterias, we will analyze each option provided and determine which statements are correct based on the characteristics of Asterias, a member of the phylum Echinodermata.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Organism**:
- Asterias is a genus of starfish belonging to the phylum Echinodermata. It is important to know that echinoderms have distinct life stages, including larval and adult forms.

2. **Identify the Larval Stage**:
- The larval stage of Asterias is known as "Bipinnaria." This is crucial information for evaluating the options.

3. **Evaluate Each Option**:
- **(a) Absent**: This statement is incorrect. The larval stage is present in Asterias.
- **(b) Free-swimming**: This statement is correct. The Bipinnaria larva is indeed free-swimming.
- **(c) Bilaterally symmetrical**: This statement is also correct. The larval stage of Asterias is bilaterally symmetrical.
- **(d) Radially symmetrical**: This statement is incorrect for the larval stage. While adult Asterias are radially symmetrical, the larval stage is not.

4. **Conclusion**:
- From the evaluation, we find that options (b) and (c) are correct. Therefore, the correct answer is option 2: (b) & (c).

### Final Answer:
The correct answer is **2) (b) & (c)**.