K1. Describe the characteristics of those in the Phylum Annelida. Compare and contrast the adaptations of earthworms, bristle worms and leeches in their biomes.
- Earthworms: Burrow in soil; use setae for movement; feed on organic matter.
- Bristle worms: Marine; parapodia for movement and gas exchange.
- Leeches: Freshwater/terrestrial; suckers for attachment; many are parasitic.
K2. Describe the characteristics of those in the Mollusca Phylum. Compare and contrast the adaptations of gastropods, bivalves and cephalopods mollusks in their biomes.
- Gastropods: Single shell or none; move with foot; radula for feeding.
- Bivalves: Two shells; filter feeders; no radula.
- Cephalopods: No external shell (most); tentacles; active predators with advanced brains.
K3. Describe the characteristics of those in the Echinodermata Phylum. Compare and contrast the adaptations of a sea star, sea urchin, sand dollar and sea cucumber in their biomes.
- Sea stars: Tube feet for movement; can open prey.
- Sea urchins: Spines for protection; scrape food.
- Sand dollars: Flattened bodies; burrow in sand; filter feed.
- Sea cucumbers: Soft bodies; ingest sediment; defense by expelling organs.
K4. Describe the characteristics that have made Arthropods so successful on earth.
Arthropods have a chitin exoskeleton, jointed appendages, segmented bodies, and specialized body parts. They also reproduce quickly, adapt easily, and live in almost all environments.
K5. Compare and contrast the adaptations of arachnids, crustaceans and insects in their biomes.
- Arachnids: 8 legs; terrestrial; no antennae; book lungs.
- Crustaceans: Mostly aquatic; gills; 2 pairs of antennae.
- Insects: 6 legs; wings (most); tracheal system; highly adaptable to land.
