Phylum Echinodermata

Front

What is the phylum Echinodermata?

Back

Echinodermata is a phylum of marine animals characterized by their radial symmetry, a water vascular system, and a calcareous endoskeleton. Examples include starfish, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers.

Front

What is the significance of water in the reproduction of echinoderms?

Back

Echinoderms release eggs and sperm into the water for external fertilization, as gametes do not survive long in the water.

Front

What body shape do brittle stars exhibit?

Back

Brittle stars have a body plan shaped like a star, with five long, slender arms extending from a central disk.

Front

Name a class within the phylum Echinodermata.

Back

Asteroidea is a class within the phylum Echinodermata, which includes starfish.

Front

What class does the brittle star belong to?

Back

Brittle stars belong to the class Ophiuroidea.

Front

What is the water vascular system in echinoderms?

Back

The water vascular system is a network of fluid-filled canals that helps echinoderms with movement, feeding, and respiration.

Front

What are tube feet in echinoderms?

Back

Tube feet are small, flexible appendages that operate through the water vascular system, allowing echinoderms to move and grasp objects.

Front

What is the role of the calcareous endoskeleton in echinoderms?

Back

The calcareous endoskeleton provides structural support and protection to echinoderms.

Front

How do echinoderms regenerate lost body parts?

Back

Echinoderms have remarkable regenerative abilities, allowing them to regrow lost arms or other body parts.

Front

What is the feeding mechanism of sea urchins?

Back

Sea urchins use a specialized structure called Aristotle's lantern to scrape algae and other food from surfaces.