Chapter 30-32 Animal Physiology and Ecology Study Guide

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on animal physiology and ecology concepts covered in Chapters 30-32.

Heterotrophic

Organisms that obtain their nutrition by consuming other organisms.

Placozoa

A phylum of simple, multicellular animals represented by a single species, Trichoplax adhaerens.

Cilia

Hair-like structures that enable movement in some microorganisms, including Trichoplax adhaerens.

Diploblastic

Embryos that develop two germ layers (ectoderm and endoderm).

Triploblastic

Embryos that develop three germ layers (ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm).

Coelom

A fluid-filled body cavity that is completely surrounded by mesoderm.

Metamorphosis

A developmental transformation that in many species involves distinct life stages.

Radula

A toothed, chitinous ribbon used by mollusks for feeding.

Endothermy

The physiological ability to generate and maintain internal body heat.

Neurogenesis

The process of forming new neurons in the brain.

Synapse

The junction between two communicating neurons.

Action potential

A temporary reversal of the membrane potential, allowing signals to be transmitted along neurons.

Threshold potential

The minimum depolarization needed to activate voltage-gated ion channels.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers released by neurons to transmit signals across synapses.

Habitat

The natural environment in which a species or community of organisms lives.

Echinodermata

A diverse group of marine animals including sea stars, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers.

Amniotic egg

An egg that contains a protective fluid-filled sac that allows for reproduction on land.

Exoskeleton

A hard outer structure that provides support and protection to some animals.

Vertebrates

Animals with a backbone, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.

Choanoflagellates

Single-celled organisms considered the closest living relatives to animals.