Flatworms: Difference between revisions

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=Habitat=
=Habitat=
Flatworms can be found in a wide range of habitats, including freshwater, marine environments, and damp [[soil]]. Some species are also parasitic and can live inside the bodies of other [[animals]].


=Diet=
=Diet=
Flatworms have a diverse diet that varies depending on the species. Many flatworms are carnivorous and feed on small animals (example: crustaceans, corals, and other [[invertebrates]]) while some are scavengers and feed on dead or decaying organic matter. There are also parasitic flatworms that feed on the tissues and fluids of their host [[organisms]].


=Reproduction=
=Reproduction=
Flatworms species are hermaphroditic, meaning that they have both male and female reproductive organs. Some species can also reproduce asexually by splitting themselves into two or more pieces that can then regenerate into complete individuals.


=Anthropogenic Benefits=
=Anthropogenic Benefits=
Some flatworms are important predators, helping to control populations of small animals and maintaining the balance of their ecosystems. Additionally, flatworms can help to break down dead organic matter, which contributes to nutrient cycling in ecosystems. Some species of flatworms also have medical applications, as they produce compounds that have potential for use in medecine.


=Anthropogenic Drawbacks=
=Anthropogenic Drawbacks=
Flatworms can be harmful to humans and animals as parasites, causing diseases or negatively affecting their hosts' health.


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Revision as of 18:32, 22 April 2023

Taxonomic Classification
caption
Kingdom: Animalia
Subkingdom: Eumetazoa
Clade: ParaHoxozoa
Clade: Bilateria
Clade: Nephrozoa
Unranked: Protostomia
Unranked: Spiralia
Clade: Rouphozoa
Phylum: Platyhelminthes
Source: Integrated Taxonomic Information System

Flatworms are the simplest of the worm groups. There are roughly 20,000 species. Flatworms are found globally and can be free-living or parasitic. One of the best-known flatworms is the tapeworm.










Habitat

Flatworms can be found in a wide range of habitats, including freshwater, marine environments, and damp soil. Some species are also parasitic and can live inside the bodies of other animals.

Diet

Flatworms have a diverse diet that varies depending on the species. Many flatworms are carnivorous and feed on small animals (example: crustaceans, corals, and other invertebrates) while some are scavengers and feed on dead or decaying organic matter. There are also parasitic flatworms that feed on the tissues and fluids of their host organisms.

Reproduction

Flatworms species are hermaphroditic, meaning that they have both male and female reproductive organs. Some species can also reproduce asexually by splitting themselves into two or more pieces that can then regenerate into complete individuals.

Anthropogenic Benefits

Some flatworms are important predators, helping to control populations of small animals and maintaining the balance of their ecosystems. Additionally, flatworms can help to break down dead organic matter, which contributes to nutrient cycling in ecosystems. Some species of flatworms also have medical applications, as they produce compounds that have potential for use in medecine.

Anthropogenic Drawbacks

Flatworms can be harmful to humans and animals as parasites, causing diseases or negatively affecting their hosts' health.

Attribute Cnidarians and Ctenophores Platyhelminthes (flatworms) More "advanced" bilaterians }}
Bilateral symmetry No Yes
Number of main cell layers Two, with jelly-like layer between them (mesoglea) Three
Distinct brain No Yes
Specialized digestive system No Yes
Specialized excretory system No Yes
Body cavity containing internal organs No Yes
Specialized circulatory and respiratory organs No Yes