Arthropods and Vertebrates Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover the key concepts of arthropods and vertebrates as presented in the lecture notes.

What distinguishes Chelicerates from other arthropods?

Chelicerates have a fused head and thorax and possess 4 walking legs.

What are the two types of Myriapods?

Millipedes and centipedes, characterized by their many legs and segmented bodies.

Where are Crustaceans predominantly found?

Most Crustaceans are marine.

What makes insects the most successful group of animals?

Insects can fly and all have 6 legs.

What symmetry do echinoderms exhibit in their larval and adult stages?

Echinoderms exhibit bilateral symmetry in larval stages and radial symmetry in adult stages.

What are the defining characteristics of Chordates?

Chordates possess a notochord, a dorsal hollow nerve cord, and pharyngeal slits.

What marks the first vertebrates in evolution?

The first vertebrates were fish.

What are hagfish and how do they differ from other vertebrates?

Hagfish have a cartilage skull but lack a recognizable backbone.

What are gnathostomes?

Gnathostomes are vertebrates that possess jaws.

What is the significance of jaws in vertebrate evolution?

Jaws evolved from gill arches and allowed the first vertebrates with jaws, like sharks and rays, to thrive.

What distinguishes Osteichthyes from other fish?

Osteichthyes, or bony fish, have an internal skeleton reinforced with calcium.

What is a swim bladder?

A swim bladder is a lung derivative that helps bony fish maintain buoyancy.

Which group of vertebrates were the first to adapt for life on land?

Tetrapods were the first land vertebrates.

What adaptations do amphibians have for a blend of aquatic and terrestrial life?

Amphibians exhibit adaptations that allow them to thrive in both aquatic and terrestrial environments.

What is an amniotic egg and why is it significant?

An amniotic egg allows for reproduction without being tied to water, significant for mammals and reptiles.

What features define turtles?

Turtles are characterized by their hard shells.

What do crocodilians represent in the reptile lineage?

Crocodilians are the largest living reptiles.

Which group are birds considered part of?

Birds are considered living dinosaurs and are the only remaining lineage.

What are the key characteristics of mammals?

Mammals have mammary glands, hair, specialized teeth, and an enlarged brain.

What are monotremes?

Monotremes are a group of mammals that still lay eggs.