Arthropods exhibit a discontinuous, step-like growth curve because their outer body covering cannot expand continuously as internal tissue accumulates. Which structural feature of arthropods necessitates this periodic moulting (ecdysis) process?
- A rigid, non-living chitinous exoskeleton that restricts expansionCevap
- BThe division of the body into fused abdominal segments and tagmata
- CThe presence of jointed thoracic appendages used for locomotion
- DAn open circulatory system supplying hemolymph directly to organs
Cevap
A rigid, non-living chitinous exoskeleton that restricts expansion
Arthropods are covered by a hard, non-living exoskeleton made of chitin and proteins. Because this outer layer cannot grow or stretch, the animal must shed its old exoskeleton (ecdysis) at regular developmental intervals to allow its body size to enlarge, producing a characteristic step-like growth curve.
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Anahtar Kavram
Discontinuous growth and ecdysis in arthropods due to a rigid exoskeleton
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