Animal Diversity and Evolution: Body Plans

A set of flashcards covering key concepts, definitions, and characteristics of animal diversity and evolution, focused on body plans.

What are heterotrophs?

Organisms that obtain energy and organic molecules by ingesting other organisms.

What is the primary difference between herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores?

Herbivores consume plants, carnivores consume meat, and omnivores consume both plants and meat.

Define detritivores.

Organisms that consume decomposing organic matter.

What allows animals to move rapidly in complex ways?

The flexibility of cells and the evolution of nerve and muscle tissues.

What is the difference between 'sessile' and 'sedentary' organisms?

Sessile organisms do not move (e.g., corals), while sedentary organisms move slowly and use low energy (e.g., snails).

What are invertebrates?

Animals without a backbone, including insects, spiders, and worms.

What is the significance of segmentation in animals?

Segmentation allows for redundant organ systems and improved locomotion.

What are the three germ layers found in triploblastic animals?

Ectoderm (outer), mesoderm (middle), endoderm (inner).

What is a pseudocoelomate?

An animal that has a fluid-filled body cavity called a pseudocoel, located between the mesoderm and endoderm.

What is the function of the blastopore in embryonic development?

It is the opening to the outside of the developing blastula and can develop into the mouth or anus depending on whether the organism is a protostome or deuterostome.

What is the main characteristic of eumetazoans?

They are true multicellular animals that have distinct tissues.

What distinguishes cnidarians from other animal groups?

Cnidarians have distinct tissues, radial symmetry, and a gastrovascular cavity for digestion.

What is differentiation in cellular biology?

The process during embryonic development where cells become specialized for specific functions.

Define 'dedifferentiation' in the context of cells.

The process by which cells revert to a less specialized state, often during regeneration.

What happens to coral due to ocean acidification?

In acidic conditions, hydrogen ions combine with carbonate to form bicarbonate, reducing the carbonate available for coral exoskeleton building.

Describe the structure and function of choanocytes in sponges.

Choanocytes are flagellated cells in sponges that drive water flow, capture food particles, and assist in reproduction.

What is the ecological role of coral reefs?

They provide habitat for diverse marine life, protect coastlines, and contribute to the economy through tourism.

What are the two main body forms of cnidarians?

Polyps (attached form) and medusas (free-swimming form).

How do jellyfish defend themselves?

They use nematocysts, which are stinging cells that can inject venom into prey or threats.

What is the importance of zooxanthellae for corals?

They perform photosynthesis, providing energy, food, and color to corals.