Cuticles Flexible Unsegmented Exoskeletons
Some ecdysozoans have wormlike bodies covered by exoskeletons that are relatively thin and flexible. Such an exoskeleton, called a cuticle, offers the animal some protection, but does not provide body support. The action of circular and longitudinal muscles on fluids in
- Shedding the Exoskeleton This dragonfly hasjust gone through a molt, a shedding of the outer exoskeleton. Such molts are necessary in order for the insect to grow larger or to change its form.
33.1 A Current Phylogeny of the Ecdysozoans Those ecdysozoan phyla withjointed appendages are often placed in a single phylum, Arthropoda. Arthropods are the most numerous animals on the planet.
Cuticle
Ecdysozoan ancestor "
- Common ancestor
the body cavity provides a hydrostatic skeleton for many of these animals, which can move only slowly. A cuticle allows the exchange of gases, minerals, and water across the body surface, but restricts the animal to moist habitats.
Cuticle
Ecdysozoan ancestor "
Chitin in exoskeleton; appendages for locomotion
Jointed appendages
Chelicerata
Chitin in exoskeleton; appendages for locomotion
Jointed appendages
Chelicerata
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