Ecdysozoa and its Phyla

A set of flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to Ecdysozoa, focusing on Nematodes and Arthropods.

Ecdysozoa

A clade within Bilateria characterized by a tough outer coat and growth via molting.

Cuticle

A tough outer coat or exoskeleton that is shed and regrown in ecdysozoans.

Ecdysis

The process of molting where the exoskeleton is shed.

Nematodes

Also known as roundworms, a diverse phylum within Ecdysozoa with thread-like bodies.

Pseudocoelom

A fluid-filled body cavity in nematodes that aids in nutrient transport.

Sexual Reproduction in Nematodes

Typically involves female nematodes laying approximately 100,000 eggs per day.

Trichinosis

A disease caused by consuming raw or undercooked pork infected with Trichinella spiralis.

Symptoms of Trichinosis

Early symptoms include heartburn and diarrhea, later symptoms may include joint pain and respiratory paralysis.

Heartworm

A disease caused by the larval nematodes of Dirofilaria immitis, transmitted by mosquitoes.

Symptoms of Heartworm

Sluggishness and exercise intolerance, potentially leading to heart failure.

Filariasis

A disease caused by nematodes transmitted by mosquitoes or black flies, resulting in lymphatic blockage.

Chelicerata

A sub-phylum of Arthropods that includes spiders, scorpions, and mites.

Hexapoda

A sub-phylum of Arthropods that encompasses insects and their close relatives.

Arthropods

A diverse group of invertebrates characterized by jointed limbs and an exoskeleton.

Open circulatory system

A circulatory system in Arthropods where hemolymph is circulated in open spaces surrounding tissues.

Chelicerae

Claw-like feeding appendages characteristic of Chelicerata.

Tagmosis

The division of the body into segments or regions, particularly in Arthropods.

Myriapods

Terrestrial arthropods characterized by elongated bodies and many legs, including millipedes and centipedes.

Incomplete metamorphosis

A type of development where the young undergo a series of molts without a distinct larval stage.

Complete metamorphosis

A developmental process involving larval stages such as caterpillars, followed by pupation into an adult form.

Tracheal system

A respiratory system in insects that allows for efficient gas exchange.

Crustacea

A sub-phylum of Arthropods that encompasses crabs, lobsters, and shrimp.

Biramous appendages

Appendages with two branches, characteristic of many crustaceans.

Decapods

A group of large crustaceans that includes species like lobsters and crabs, typically with ten limbs.

Copepods

Planktonic crustaceans that are among the most numerous animals on Earth.

Key Characteristics of Ecdysozoa

Tough cuticle, ecdysis, and diverse body forms including Nematodes and Arthropods.

Challenges related to Nematodes

They are often vectors for diseases in humans and animals, complicating health issues.

Adaptations for success in insects

Possessing wings, varied feeding strategies, and metamorphosis facilitate their adaptation and success.