Platyhelminthes
Platyhelminthes
Platyhelminthes (pronounced: plat-ee-hel-min-thiz), also known as flatworms, are a phylum of relatively simple bilaterian, unsegmented, soft-bodied invertebrates.
Etymology
The term "Platyhelminthes" comes from the Greek words "platys" meaning flat and "helmins" meaning worm.
Definition
Platyhelminthes are a phylum of worms characterized by their flat, soft bodies. They are bilaterally symmetrical, meaning their left and right sides are mirror images of each other. They lack a body cavity, or coelom, and their bodies are solid between the outer surface and the cavity of the digestive system.
Classification
Platyhelminthes are divided into four classes: Turbellaria, which are mostly non-parasitic animals such as planarians; Monogenea and Trematoda, which are parasitic flukes; and Cestoda, the tapeworms.
Anatomy
The body of a platyhelminth is covered by a layer of cells called the epidermis. Underneath the epidermis is a layer of muscle tissue, which allows the worm to move. The interior of the worm is filled with a type of connective tissue called parenchyma.
Reproduction
Most platyhelminths are hermaphrodites, meaning each individual has both male and female reproductive organs. They can reproduce both sexually and asexually.
Related Terms
- Bilaterian
- Invertebrates
- Turbellaria
- Monogenea
- Trematoda
- Cestoda
- Epidermis
- Parenchyma
- Hermaphrodites
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Platyhelminthes
- Wikipedia's article - Platyhelminthes
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