Mollusks, Arthropods, and Echinoderms Flashcards
What are some examples of mollusks?
Clams, oysters, scallops, snails, and squids
Mollusks are diverse and include both aquatic and terrestrial species.
What are the major groups of mollusks?
- Gastropods
- Bivalves
- Cephalopods
These groups are differentiated based on their physical characteristics and lifestyles.
What type of circulatory system do mollusks have?
Open circulatory system
The heart pumps blood into short vessels that open into body spaces.
How do mollusks obtain oxygen?
Through gills
Gills have cilia and blood vessels that facilitate oxygen absorption from water.
What is a radula?
A flexible ribbon of tiny teeth
Used by mollusks for feeding, varying in function based on their diet.
What are gastropods?
The largest group of mollusks including snails and slugs
They can have a single shell or no shell at all and live in various environments.
What type of feeding mechanism do bivalves use?
Filter feeding
Bivalves strain tiny organisms from water for food.
What is the primary characteristic of cephalopods?
Foot adapted to form tentacles around the mouth
This adaptation allows them to be effective predators.
What are the four major groups of arthropods?
- Crustaceans
- Arachnids
- Centipedes and millipedes
- Insects
Each group has distinct characteristics and adaptations.
What is an exoskeleton?
A waterproof, waxy covering that protects arthropods
It helps prevent water loss and protects from predators.
How do crustaceans typically breathe?
Using gills
Gills help crustaceans obtain oxygen from water.
What type of metamorphosis do insects undergo?
Complete metamorphosis
Involves four distinct stages: egg, larvae, pupa, and adult.
What is the role of insects in the food chain?
- Decomposers
- Consumers
- Pollinators
Insects play various roles, including breaking down organic matter and serving as prey.
What are the four major groups of echinoderms?
- Sea stars
- Brittle stars
- Sea urchins
- Sea cucumbers
Echinoderms are characterized by their unique body structures and reproductive methods.
What is the body symmetry of echinoderms?
Radial symmetry
This symmetry is typical among echinoderms, with a mouth located on the underside.
How do echinoderms reproduce?
Eggs are fertilized in water
The fertilized egg develops into a swimming larvae, undergoing gradual metamorphosis.
What is the function of tube feet in echinoderms?
Used for movement and capturing food
Tube feet are part of the water vascular system and help in locomotion.
What type of digestive system do sea stars have?
Two-way digestive system
They can push their stomachs out through their mouths to digest prey externally.
True or False: Centipedes have venom.
True
Centipedes are known for their venomous bites.
Fill in the blank: Arthropods undergo a process called _______ to grow larger.
molting
This process involves shedding the exoskeleton to allow for growth.
