In biological taxonomy, multicellular animals in the kingdom Animalia are categorized into distinct phyla based on major body plans, symmetry, and specialized anatomical features. Match each animal phylum to its correct defining diagnostic characteristic.
- Phylum PoriferaAsymmetrical body plan lacking true tissues and organs, possessing pores for filter feeding
- Phylum CnidariaRadial symmetry with a simple nerve net and specialized stinging structures called nematocysts
- Phylum MolluscaSoft unsegmented body typically consisting of a muscular foot, a visceral mass, and a mantle
- Phylum EchinodermataAdult five-part radial symmetry with a calcareous endoskeleton and a water vascular system
Answer
Phylum Porifera matches the asymmetrical body plan lacking true tissues; Phylum Cnidaria matches radial symmetry with stinging nematocysts; Phylum Mollusca matches the soft unsegmented body with a muscular foot, visceral mass, and mantle; Phylum Echinodermata matches adult five-part radial symmetry with a water vascular system.
Each biological phylum is defined by major evolutionary transitions in body architecture: Porifera represents the parazoan grade without true tissues; Cnidaria represents radial diploblasts with nematocysts; Mollusca represents protostome coelomates with a mantle, muscular foot, and visceral mass; and Echinodermata represents marine deuterostomes with adult pentaradial symmetry and a hydraulic water vascular system.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Taxonomic classification of major invertebrate phyla based on diagnostic morphological synapomorphies and body plans.
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