answersLogoWhite

0

Flatworms

The phylum Platyhelminthes (aka flatworms) are rather primitive invertebrates that can be either parasitic or non-parasitic depending upon the species. They have no body cavity, no circulatory organs and no respiratory organs. Questions about flatworms can be asked and answered here.

383 Questions

Are flatworm a producer or consumer?

Flatworms are primarily consumers, as they are heterotrophic organisms that feed on other organisms or organic matter. They typically inhabit various environments and can be found preying on small invertebrates or scavenging on decaying material. Some flatworms, like certain planarians, may also feed on bacteria or detritus, but they do not perform photosynthesis like producers.

What are 2 other phyla members of a tapeworm?

Tapeworms belong to the phylum Platyhelminthes, which is also home to other members such as planarians and flukes. Planarians are free-living flatworms known for their regenerative abilities, while flukes are parasitic flatworms that can infect various hosts, including humans. Both groups share characteristics of flat body structures and bilateral symmetry, common to the phylum.

How is the nervous system of a flatworm more complex than the sensory cells and nerve net of a Cnidaria?

The nervous system of flatworms is more complex than the sensory cells and nerve net of Cnidaria due to the presence of a centralized structure, including a pair of cerebral ganglia and longitudinal nerve cords, which allow for more coordinated movement and processing of information. In contrast, Cnidarians possess a decentralized nerve net that lacks a central brain, resulting in less complex behavior and response to stimuli. Flatworms exhibit bilateral symmetry and more sophisticated behaviors, indicating a higher level of neural organization compared to the simpler radial symmetry of Cnidarians. This complexity enables flatworms to engage in more advanced functions such as learning and problem-solving.

How does a fluke-style anchor hold a pleasure craft in place?

A fluke-style anchor holds a pleasure craft in place by using its pointed flukes to penetrate the seabed, creating a secure grip. As the boat pulls against the anchor, the flukes dig deeper into the substrate, increasing resistance. The design allows it to effectively set in various types of bottoms, such as sand or mud, and its lightweight construction makes it easy to deploy and retrieve. This combination of features ensures stability and prevents the anchor from dragging under normal conditions.

How does nutrients get to cells in a flatworms solid acoelomate body?

In flatworms, which are acoelomates, nutrients are absorbed directly from the environment through their moist skin and distributed to cells via diffusion. Their bodies are relatively thin, allowing for efficient nutrient exchange without specialized circulatory systems. The gastrovascular cavity also plays a role, as it helps in the digestion and distribution of nutrients throughout the body. Overall, the flatworm's simple body plan facilitates direct nutrient access to all cells.

Is head end of a flatworm dorsal?

In flatworms, the head end is typically considered the anterior end, which is often oriented dorsally when the flatworm is in its natural swimming position. However, flatworms have a bilateral symmetry, and their body can be flattened on both sides, making it less straightforward to assign a strict dorsal or ventral designation. Overall, while the head end can be thought to face upward in many species, the orientation can vary based on their environment and behavior.

Is a hookworm a roundworm or a flatworm?

Oh, dude, a hookworm is actually a roundworm. It's like a little spaghetti-looking thing that hooks onto your intestines and causes all sorts of fun issues. So yeah, next time you're thinking about worms, just remember hookworms are on Team Roundworm.

Do flatworms have no coelom?

Yes, flatworms do not have a true coelom. They have a solid body structure without a cavity between their gut and body wall, which distinguishes them as acoelomates.

What short hairlike structures on cells that help flatworms move?

Cilia are short hairlike structures found on cells of flatworms that help them to move by beating in a coordinated manner. These cilia create fluid flow over the surface of the flatworm, enabling it to glide and swim.

Does a flatworm have a tissue-organ grade of organization?

Yes, flatworms have a tissue-organ grade of organization. They have distinct tissues that perform specific functions, such as muscle tissue for movement and nerve tissue for coordination. They also have simple organ systems, such as a digestive system with a mouth and intestine.

What is the body symmetry of liver fluke?

Liver flukes have bilateral symmetry, meaning they can be divided into two equal halves along a single plane.

Do flatworms have internal fertilization?

No, flatworms typically reproduce through external fertilization. The male releases sperm into the water, which then fertilizes the eggs released by the female.

If you cut a flatworm in half both halves can grow into a new individual by?

regenerating the missing body parts. Each half has the ability to regenerate the other half of its body, resulting in two separate individuals from the original flatworm.

Is a flatworm a amoeba?

No, a flatworm and an amoeba are different organisms. Flatworms are multicellular animals belonging to the phylum Platyhelminthes, while amoebas are single-celled protists that move and feed by extending pseudopods.

A physical structure or a behavior that helps an organism to survive in its environment is?

an adaptation. Adaptations can include physical features like camouflage or behaviors like migration that improve an organism's chances of survival and reproduction in its specific environment.

Do flatworms have a need for circulatory or respiratory systems?

Flatworms do not have a circulatory system because they are thin enough for nutrients and gases to diffuse directly through their bodies. They also lack a respiratory system as they absorb oxygen and release carbon dioxide through their skin.

What type of tissue forms the outermost layer of a flatworm?

The outermost layer of a flatworm is composed of a syncytial epidermis. This layer is made up of a single layer of cells fused together, providing protection and facilitating nutrient exchange.

What cell removes excess what from flatworms?

Flame cells remove excess water and waste from the bodies of flatworms through a network of tubules. This process helps regulate the osmotic balance and maintain homeostasis within the flatworm's body.

If a flatworm is cut in half how do both halves grow into a new individual?

Flatworms have the ability to regenerate missing body parts, so when cut in half, each half can regenerate the missing parts to form a new individual. Specialized cells called neoblasts grow and develop into the structures needed to create a complete organism.

What is the process of asexual reproduction in freeliving flatworms?

In free-living flatworms, asexual reproduction typically involves fission, where the organism splits into two separate individuals. This process begins with the organism elongating and then splitting down the middle to form two new organisms. Each new organism then regenerates any missing or damaged tissues to become independent.

Are flatworms harmful or helpful to humans?

Some flatworms can be harmful to humans as they can cause diseases like schistosomiasis. However, not all flatworms are harmful, and some are actually beneficial by controlling pest populations in the environment.

Are flatworms protists?

No, flatworms are not protists. They belong to the phylum Platyhelminthes, which are multicellular organisms with specialized tissues and organs. Protists, on the other hand, are a diverse group of single-celled eukaryotic organisms.

Why animals of platyhelmenthis are known as flatworms?

Animals of the phylum Platyhelminthes are known as flatworms because their bodies are dorsoventrally flattened, giving them a thin and flat appearance. This flat body shape allows for efficient gas exchange and nutrient absorption through their body surface.