Chapter 6 Introduction To Animals Vocabulary Test

Explanation
Animals that eat only plants are called herbivores. Herbivores rely solely on plant material for their nutrition and do not consume any animal products. They have specialized digestive systems that are adapted to break down and extract nutrients from plant matter. Some examples of herbivores include cows, deer, and rabbits. By consuming plants, herbivores play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling plant populations and serving as a food source for other animals.

Explanation
A free-living organism is one that does not rely on a specific organism for its food or habitat. It is able to find its own sources of food and can live independently without being dependent on another organism. This means that it has the ability to survive and thrive in various environments without the need for a specific host or location.

Explanation
A hermaphrodite is an organism that has both male and female reproductive organs, allowing it to produce both sperm and eggs. This enables hermaphrodites to self-fertilize and reproduce without the need for a mate. This adaptation is commonly found in certain species of animals, such as snails and some fish, as well as in some plants. The ability to produce both types of gametes increases the reproductive success and flexibility of hermaphrodites, as they have the potential to mate with any other individual of their species.

Explanation
An invertebrate is an animal that does not have a backbone. This means that it lacks a vertebral column, which is the defining characteristic of vertebrates. Invertebrates make up the majority of the animal kingdom and include a wide range of organisms such as insects, worms, mollusks, and jellyfish. They have evolved various adaptations to compensate for the lack of a backbone, allowing them to thrive in different environments and fulfill different ecological roles. Overall, the term "invertebrate" is used to describe a diverse group of animals that share the common feature of not having a backbone.

Explanation
A medusa is a bell-shaped, free-swimming cnidarian body type. Cnidarians are a group of animals that includes jellyfish, sea anemones, and corals. The medusa body type is characterized by a dome-shaped bell with tentacles hanging down from the edge. This body type allows for efficient movement and feeding in the water. Medusas are typically found in the open ocean and are capable of pulsating their bell-shaped bodies to propel themselves through the water.

Explanation
An omnivore is a type of organism that consumes both plants and animals as part of its diet. This means that it has the ability to obtain nutrients from a variety of sources, making it adaptable to different environments. By eating both plants and animals, omnivores are able to access a wider range of nutrients and energy sources, allowing them to thrive in various ecosystems. This characteristic distinguishes them from herbivores, which only eat plants, and carnivores, which solely consume meat.

Explanation
The correct answer is "polyp". A polyp is a vase-shaped cnidarian body type characterized by a cylindrical body with a mouth surrounded by tentacles at one end and an attached base at the other end. Polyps are typically sessile and can be found in various cnidarian species such as corals and sea anemones. They are adapted for filter-feeding or capturing prey using their stinging cells called cnidocytes. Polyps are an important part of the cnidarian life cycle, as they can reproduce asexually by budding to create colonies or undergo sexual reproduction to produce medusae.

Explanation
Radial symmetry refers to the arrangement of body parts around a central point, similar to the spokes of a bicycle wheel. In this type of symmetry, the organism's body can be divided into multiple identical sections that radiate out from the center. This allows for equal distribution of body parts and functions, and is commonly seen in organisms such as jellyfish and starfish.

Explanation
The term "sessile" refers to an organism or structure that is permanently attached to one place and does not have the ability to move or relocate. This term is commonly used in biology to describe plants or animals that are fixed in one position, such as barnacles or certain types of plants that grow attached to rocks or other surfaces. It is the opposite of "mobile" or "motile," which refers to organisms that have the ability to move or change location.

Explanation
A stinging cell is a structure found on the tentacles of cnidarians, such as jellyfish and sea anemones. These cells, also known as cnidocytes, contain a tiny harpoon-like structure called a nematocyst. When triggered by touch or chemical signals, the nematocyst shoots out and injects venom into the prey, immobilizing or killing it. This allows the cnidarian to capture and feed on its prey. The stinging cell is an essential adaptation for cnidarians to survive and obtain nutrients.

Explanation
A vertebrate is an animal with a backbone. This means that it has a structural support system made up of bones or cartilage running along its back. Vertebrates include mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. They have a well-developed internal skeleton that provides support, protection, and enables movement. In contrast, invertebrates do not have a backbone and include animals such as insects, mollusks, and worms.

Explanation
A tentacle is an armlike structure that is equipped with stinging cells. Tentacles are commonly found in various organisms such as jellyfish, anemones, and some species of squid. These stinging cells, known as cnidocytes, are used for capturing prey or for self-defense. Tentacles can be elongated or flexible, allowing them to reach out and grasp objects or organisms. They are an important adaptation for these organisms, enabling them to survive and interact with their environment effectively.

Explanation
Bilateral symmetry refers to the characteristic of having right and left halves that are near mirror images of each other. This means that if an organism is divided into two equal halves along its central axis, the two halves will be almost identical in shape and structure. This type of symmetry is commonly seen in animals, including humans, where the left and right sides of the body are typically similar. Bilateral symmetry allows for efficient movement and coordination, as well as specialization of different body parts for specific functions.

Explanation
The opening at the end of the digestive tract where wastes leave is called the anus.

Explanation
A carnivore is an animal that feeds exclusively on other animals. This type of animal has adapted to have sharp teeth and claws, as well as a digestive system that is designed to process meat. Carnivores obtain their energy and nutrients by hunting and consuming other animals, which makes them at the top of the food chain. Some examples of carnivores include lions, tigers, and wolves. They play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by controlling the population of herbivores and preventing overgrazing.

Explanation
Millipedes are known to be detritivores, meaning they feed on decaying organic matter. This decaying matter is commonly referred to as detritus. Therefore, it can be concluded that millipedes feed on tiny bits of decaying matter called detritus.

Explanation
Camouflage is an adaptation for many predators so they can sneak up on their prey. This is because it allows them to blend in with their surroundings, making it difficult for their prey to spot them. By using colors and patterns that match their environment, predators can effectively hide and remain undetected, increasing their chances of a successful hunt. Camouflage is a crucial survival strategy that helps predators ambush their prey without being noticed.

Explanation
Symmetry refers to the arrangement of body parts in a balanced and harmonious manner. In animals, symmetry can be bilateral, where the body is divided into two equal halves, or radial, where body parts are arranged around a central axis. Symmetry is important for the overall functionality and coordination of an animal's body, allowing for efficient movement and sensory perception.

Explanation
Spicules are sharp, pointed structures found in various organisms such as sponges, sea urchins, and certain types of cells. These structures serve various functions, including support, defense, and capturing prey. They are typically made of hard materials like calcium carbonate or silica, and their pointed shape helps them penetrate and anchor into surfaces. Spicules are an important adaptation for these organisms, allowing them to thrive in their respective environments.

Explanation
Spongin is a fibrous material found in bath sponges that people use for bathing or washing their cars. It forms the skeleton of the sponge, providing structure and support. Spongin is known for its softness and absorbency, making it an ideal material for cleaning and personal hygiene purposes.