Survey of the Animal Kingdom - Phylum Arthropoda

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts discussed in the lecture on Phylum Arthropoda, including classification, anatomy, and role within ecosystems.

What is the largest phylum of ecdysozoans?

Phylum Arthropoda.

What are the major features of Phylum Arthropoda?

Jointed appendages, segmented bodies, exoskeleton, and open circulatory systems.

What is the defining material of the exoskeleton in arthropods?

Chitin.

What type of circulatory system do arthropods have?

Open circulatory systems.

How many species are estimated to belong to Phylum Arthropoda?

2-10 million species.

What are Chelicerates?

A class within Phylum Arthropoda that includes spiders, scorpions, and horseshoe crabs.

What are the primary mouthparts of Crustaceans?

Mandibles.

What are the two main body regions of Crustaceans?

Cephalothorax and abdomen.

What adaptations do arachnids have for feeding?

Chelicerae modified as fangs and pedipalps to manipulate food.

What is the primary ecological role of spiders?

Predators of insects and other small invertebrates.

What is Limulus Amoebocyte Lysate (LAL)?

A test derived from horseshoe crab blood used to detect bacterial endotoxins.

What distinguishes centipedes from millipedes?

Centipedes have one pair of legs per segment; millipedes have two.

What is an example of a medical use for horseshoe crab blood?

Testing medical equipment for contamination.

What kind of appendages do insects have?

Uniramous appendages.

How many pairs of legs do insects possess?

Three pairs of legs.

What do spiracles in insect anatomy function as?

Respiratory openings.

Name a key characteristic of Class Hexapoda.

Includes insects and springtails, possessing three body regions.

What is the primary function of the exoskeleton in arthropods?

Protection and a place for muscle attachment.