Structural Organisation in Animals - Key Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards defining key terms related to tissue systems, morphology, anatomy, and physiological structures of frogs based on the textbook chapter.

Tissue

A group of similar cells along with intercellular substances performing a specific function in multicellular animals.

Organ System

A group of two or more organs performing a common function by their physical and/or chemical interaction.

Division of Labour

The distribution of work among cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems to contribute to the survival of the body as a whole.

Morphology

The study of form or externally visible features of organisms.

Anatomy

The study of the morphology of internal organs in animals.

Poikilotherms

Cold-blooded animals whose body temperature varies with the temperature of the environment, such as frogs.

Camouflage

The ability of an animal to change its color to blend in with its surroundings and hide from enemies.

Mimicry

Protective coloration used by animals to conceal themselves from enemies.

Aestivation

Summer sleep taken by frogs in deep burrows to protect themselves from extreme heat.

Hibernation

Winter sleep taken by frogs in deep burrows to protect themselves from extreme cold.

Nictitating Membrane

A protective membrane covering the bulged eyes of a frog while underwater.

Tympanum

A membranous structure located on either side of the eyes in frogs that receives sound signals.

Sexual Dimorphism

The physical differences in appearance between male and female individuals of the same species.

Copulatory Pad

A specialized structure present on the first digit of the forelimbs in male frogs that is absent in females.

Chyme

Partially digested food passed from the stomach into the duodenum.

Villi and Microvilli

Finger-like folds present in the inner wall of the intestine that absorb digested food.

Cutaneous Respiration

Respiration occurring through the moist skin in water by diffusion of dissolved oxygen.

Pulmonary Respiration

Respiration performed by the lungs on land.

Sinus Venosus

A triangular structure attached to the right atrium of a frog's heart that receives blood through the vena cava.

Conus Arteriosus

A sac-like structure on the ventral side of the heart into which the ventricle opens.

Hepatic Portal System

A special venous connection between the liver and intestine in frogs.

Renal Portal System

A special venous connection between the kidney and lower parts of the body in frogs.

Uriniferous Tubules

The structural and functional units of a kidney, also known as nephrons.

Ureotelic

Excreting nitrogenous waste primarily in the form of urea.

Cranium

The bony structure, or brain box, that encloses the brain.

Foramen Magnum

The opening in the cranium through which the medulla oblongata passes to continue into the spinal cord.

Mesorchium

A double fold of peritoneum that adheres the ovoid testes to the upper part of the kidneys in male frogs.

Vasa Efferentia

A group of 10-12 ducts arising from the testes that enter the kidneys and open into Bidder's canal.

Bidder's Canal

A canal inside the kidney of male frogs that receives sperm from the vasa efferentia and connects to the urinogenital duct.

Tadpole

The larval stage in the development of a frog that undergoes metamorphosis to become an adult.