Lower invertebrates display key evolutionary innovations in their body plans, cellular organizations, and functional systems. Pair each of the following invertebrate phyla on the left with its defining structural feature on the right.
- PoriferaPresence of flagellated choanocytes for maintaining water currents and filter feeding
- CoelenterataSpecialized stinging organelles called nematocysts for prey capture and defense
- PlatyhelminthesProtonephridial system containing flame cells for osmoregulation and waste excretion
- NematodaFluid-filled pseudocoelom between mesoderm and endoderm serving as a hydrostatic skeleton
Answer
Porifera matches with presence of flagellated choanocytes; Coelenterata matches with specialized stinging nematocysts; Platyhelminthes matches with flame cells (protonephridia); Nematoda matches with fluid-filled pseudocoelom.
Each phylum is accurately matched with its primary evolutionary diagnostic feature: Porifera rely on choanocytes for feeding, Coelenterata utilize nematocysts for capture and defense, Platyhelminthes possess flame cells for osmoregulation, and Nematoda feature a pseudocoelom functioning as a hydrostatic skeleton.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Diagnostic anatomical structures and body cavity configurations of lower invertebrate phyla
Estimated Time:1m 30s