Summary Roundworms make up the phylum Nematoda. Roundworms have a pseudocoelom and hydrostatic skeleton. Their body is covered with tough cuticle. Free-living roundworms are found mainly in freshwater habitats. Parasitic roundworms have a variety of hosts, including humans.
What are physical characteristics of roundworms?
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS The size of roundworms ranges from microscopic to as long as 3.3 feet (1 meter). Most roundworms have a hard, sharp spear on their head, and some have bristles on the head. The body of roundworms is protected by a flexible but strong, grooved body covering.
What are the general characteristics of nematodes?
Nematodes are bilaterally symmetrical, elongate, and usually tapered at both ends. Some species possess a pseudocoel, a fluid-filled body cavity between the digestive tract and the body wall. Like arthropods and members of six other phyla, nematodes secrete an external cuticle that is periodically molted.
What are three common characteristics of flatworms and roundworms?
Similarities Between Flatworms and Roundworms Both flatworms and roundworms are multicellular, mobile, invertebrate animals. Both flatworms and roundworms are heterotrophs. Both flatworms and roundworms show bilateral symmetry. Both flatworms and roundworms show organ level organization.
What makes roundworms unique?
The two most prominent features that distinguish roundworms from flatworms are the presence of a pseudocoelom, or partially developed body cavity, and a complete digestive tract with two openings, a mouth and an anus.
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