Phylum Phoronida: The Horseshoe Worms (And a Summary of Lophophorata)

The video tutorial explores the clade Lofophorata and its relation to the larger clade Spiralia, focusing on the phylum Phoronida, or horseshoe worms. It covers their anatomy, physiology, and reproduction, highlighting their unique features such as the lophophore used for feeding and gas exchange. The lifecycle, including the actinotroch larvae stage, is discussed. A comparison of the four phyla within Lofophorata is provided, emphasizing differences in anatomy and lifestyle. The tutorial concludes with an introduction to the sister clade, Ecdysozoa.

Explain the role of the lofophore in horseshoe worms.

Discuss the significance of the nervous system in horseshoe worms.

What are the differences in the excretory systems among the phyla within Lofophorata?