Posts

Showing posts with the label annelids

Invertebrates — Diversity, Body Plans, and Evolutionary Adaptations Explained | Chapter 33 of Campbell Biology

Image
Invertebrates — Diversity, Body Plans, and Evolutionary Adaptations Explained | Chapter 33 of Campbell Biology Invertebrates make up more than 95% of all known animal species, showcasing a staggering range of adaptations, body structures, and ecological strategies. Chapter 33 of Campbell Biology examines the evolutionary innovations and phylogenetic relationships among the major invertebrate phyla. From sponges and cnidarians to mollusks, annelids, and arthropods, this chapter reveals how these animals adapted to diverse habitats and shaped the natural world. Watch the podcast summary below, then explore this expanded breakdown for key concepts, context, and glossary terms. Introduction: The Importance of Invertebrates Invertebrates are vital to ecosystems as decomposers, filter feeders, predators, and prey. They display remarkable diversity in body plans, nervous and digestive systems, and reproductive strategies—providing a foundation for understanding animal evolutio...