ZoologyLesson 3 of 4 in the course Invertebrates

Ecdysozoan Molting, Nematode Biology, and Tardigrade Adaptations

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

This lesson introduces the defining features of Ecdysozoa and explores the body plan and major systems of nematodes. Understanding these features helps explain how roundworms live in a wide range of habitats and how they differ from other worm groups.

Ecdysozoa is a superphylum that includes nematodes, tardigrades, and arthropods. It is considered a monophyletic group: its members are understood to descend from a common ancestor and include that ancestor's evolutionary descendants.

All flashcards

What is the cuticle of an ecdysozoan?
A tough, flexible outer covering that protects the animal from water loss and environmental hazards.
How are molting and ecdysis related?
Molting is the process of replacing the cuticle; ecdysis is the shedding of the old cuticle.
What is a syncytium in a nematode epidermis?
A multinucleated tissue formed by the fusion of cells.
What is cryptobiosis?
A state in which metabolic activity is suspended or greatly reduced.
How do tardigrades grow despite having a fixed cell number?
Their cells enlarge rather than increasing in number.

Quiz questions

  1. What is ecdysis in an ecdysozoan?Answer: The shedding of the old cuticle.
  2. Which feature helps researchers observe internal cells in living Caenorhabditis elegans?Answer: Its transparent body.
  3. How can people become infected with guinea worm, Dracunculus medinensis?Answer: By drinking unfiltered water containing infected copepods.
  4. What do tardigrade Malpighian tubules do?Answer: They remove metabolic wastes and carry them to the gut.
  5. What do tardigrades use to pierce plant cells while feeding?Answer: A chitinous stylet.

Based on Biology 2e by Mary Ann Clark, Matthew Douglas, Jung Choi (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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