Lab 9: Animal Development

This set of flashcards addresses key terms and concepts related to animal development as discussed in the lab.

Embryology

The study of the processes that shape adult forms, including fertilization, zygote formation, and morphogenesis.

Zygote

A diploid cell produced by the fusion of egg and sperm cells during fertilization.

Cleavage

A series of mitotic divisions of the zygote that produces daughter cells called blastomeres.

Blastula

A mass of cells formed during the blastulation stage, typically arranged into a thin-walled sphere with a central cavity called the blastocoel.

Gastrulation

The process characterized by the formation of the archenteron and the three germ layers: ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm.

Ectoderm

The germ layer that develops into the outer layers of skin and its derivatives, the nervous system, and various sensory cells.

Mesoderm

The germ layer that forms the lining of body cavities, muscle tissue, connective tissues, and various organs.

Endoderm

The germ layer that gives rise to the lining of the digestive tract, airways, and glandular organs.

Neurulation

An advanced stage of development where the nervous system begins to form, distinguishing vertebrates from echinoderms.

Morphogenesis

The development of specific forms through the reorganization of germ layers.

Deuterostome

A taxonomic group where the blastopore develops into the anus; includes echinoderms and chordates.

Protostome

A taxonomic group where the blastopore develops into the mouth; includes most other invertebrates.

Somites

Rectangular cell masses of mesoderm that begin to appear during chick embryonic development.

Amnion

The thin-walled membrane that surrounds the embryo and provides cushioning.

Allantois

An extraembryonic membrane that functions as a waste repository and assists in gas exchange.

Chorion

An extraembryonic membrane that works with the allantois to transport and exchange gases.

Chorio-allantoic membrane

A structure formed by the fusion of the chorion and allantois in mammals, contributing to the placenta.