Echinoderm

A detailed overview of echinoderms, a phylum of marine animals

Echinoderm Overview

A starfish, a common type of echinoderm.

Echinoderms are a diverse and fascinating group of marine animals belonging to the phylum Echinodermata. This phylum is characterized by its members' unique radial symmetry, a calcareous endoskeleton, and a water vascular system. Echinoderms are exclusively marine and are found in oceans all over the world, from the intertidal zone to the deep sea.

Characteristics

Echinoderms exhibit several distinctive features:

• Radial Symmetry: Most adult echinoderms have a five-part radial symmetry, although their larvae are bilaterally symmetrical.
• Endoskeleton: Composed of calcareous plates or ossicles, the endoskeleton provides support and protection.
• Water Vascular System: This hydraulic system is unique to echinoderms and is used for locomotion, feeding, and respiration. It includes tube feet, which are extensions that can be extended or retracted by hydraulic pressure.
• Regeneration: Many echinoderms have remarkable regenerative abilities, allowing them to regrow lost arms or other body parts.

Classification

The phylum Echinodermata is divided into several classes:

• Asteroidea: This class includes starfish or sea stars, which are perhaps the most well-known echinoderms.
• Ophiuroidea: Brittle stars and basket stars belong to this class, characterized by their distinct central disc and long, flexible arms.
• Echinoidea: Sea urchins and sand dollars are part of this class, known for their spiny exteriors.
• Holothuroidea: Sea cucumbers are included in this class, notable for their elongated bodies and leathery skin.
• Crinoidea: This class includes sea lilies and feather stars, which have feathery arms used for filter feeding.

Ecology and Habitat

A sea urchin, another type of echinoderm.

Echinoderms play a crucial role in marine ecosystems. They are often found on the ocean floor, where they contribute to the benthic community. Many echinoderms are detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter, while others are predators or filter feeders.

Echinoderms are also important in the food chain, serving as prey for a variety of marine animals, including fish, sea otters, and birds. Their presence can indicate the health of marine environments, as they are sensitive to changes in water quality and temperature.

Reproduction

Echinoderms have diverse reproductive strategies. Most species are dioecious, with separate male and female individuals, although some are hermaphroditic. Fertilization is typically external, with eggs and sperm released into the water column. The resulting larvae are planktonic and undergo several developmental stages before settling to the ocean floor and transforming into adults.

Evolutionary Significance

Echinoderms are an ancient group, with a fossil record dating back to the Cambrian period. Their unique body plan and evolutionary adaptations provide valuable insights into the evolution of deuterostomes, a superphylum that also includes chordates.

Related Pages

• Marine biology
• Invertebrate
• Oceanography
• Benthic zone