Phylum Coelenterata: Definition, Characteristics, Classification and Examples

Definition, Characteristics, Classification and Examples of Phylum Coelenterata

Phylum Coelenterata (Gr., koilos = hollow ; enteron = intestine), also known as Phylum Cnidaria, is a group of aquatic, mostly marine animals characterized by a simple body structure with a single opening serving as both mouth and anus. Members of this phylum have a diploblastic body (two tissue layers: ectoderm and endoderm) and radial symmetry. They possess specialized stinging cells called cnidocytes containing nematocysts, used for defense and capturing prey. Coelenterates exhibit two main body forms: the sessile polyp (e.g., Hydra) and the free-floating medusa (e.g., jellyfish). This phylum includes organisms like corals, sea anemones, and hydroids, playing important roles in marine ecosystems, such as reef-building.

Differences between Apoptosis and Necrosis

Differences between Apoptosis and Necrosis

The main difference between apoptosis and necrosis is the way in which cell death occurs. Apoptosis is a programmed and controlled process of cell death that plays a vital role in normal development, tissue maintenance, and removing damaged cells. It does not cause inflammation as the cell contents are contained and recycled. Necrosis, on the other hand, is an uncontrolled and unplanned cell death caused by injury, infection, or toxins, often leading to inflammation as the cell contents are released into the surrounding tissue.

Canal System in Sponges

Sycon type of Canal System in Sponges

Inside the body of Sponges, the water current flows through a certain system of spaces collectively forming the canal system in sponges.

Differences between Innate and Adaptive Immunity

Difference between Innate and Adaptive Immunity

The main differences between Innate and Adaptive Immunity lies in their response mechanisms and specificity. Innate immunity is the body’s first line of defense and provides a rapid, non-specific response to infections. It includes physical barriers (like skin), chemical barriers, and immune cells like macrophages. In contrast, adaptive immunity is specific to particular pathogens and develops over time, involving specialized cells like T and B lymphocytes that create memory for future immune responses.

Differences between Somatic and Germ Cells

difference between somatic cells and germ cells

The main differences between somatic and germ cells is their function and role in reproduction. Somatic cells are the body cells that make up the tissues and organs of an organism and are involved in growth, repair, and maintenance. Germ cells, on the other hand, are specialized cells that give rise to gametes (sperm and egg cells) and are involved in sexual reproduction.

Differences between Dominant and Recessive Alleles

Difference between Dominant and Recessive Alleles

The main differences between dominant and recessive alleles is how they affect the expression of a trait. A dominant allele is expressed in the phenotype even if only one copy is present (heterozygous condition), while a recessive allele is only expressed when two copies are present (homozygous condition).

Bacterial Culture Media: Definition, Composition and Classification

Bacterial Culture Media Definition, Composition and Classification

Bacterial Culture Media Bacterial culture media are nutrient-rich substances designed to support the growth, proliferation, and maintenance of bacterial populations in a controlled laboratory environment. One of the most important reasons for culturing bacteria in vitro is its utility in diagnosing infectious diseases. Isolating a bacterium from sites in the body normally known to be … Read more

Phylum Porifera: Definition, Characteristics, Classification and Examples

Phylum Porifera: Definition, Characteristics, Classification and Examples

Phylum Porifera is a group of simple, multicellular, aquatic animals commonly known as sponges. They are characterized by their porous body structure, which allows water to circulate through specialized channels, enabling them to filter-feed by extracting nutrients and oxygen from the water. Most sponges are marine, though some are found in freshwater. Porifera are among the most ancient animal groups, with a simple organization that makes them pivotal to understanding the evolution of multicellular organisms.

Differences between Chromosome and Chromatid

Difference between Chromosome and Chromatid

The main differences between a chromosome and a chromatid lies in their structure and role during cell division. A chromosome is a single, condensed DNA molecule containing genetic information. Before cell division, each chromosome is replicated, resulting in two identical copies. Chromatid refers to one of these identical copies of the chromosome.

Differences between Chlorophyll and Chloroplast

difference between chlorophyll and chloroplast

The main differences between chlorophyll and chloroplast is their function and structure. Chlorophyll is a green pigment that captures light energy for photosynthesis, while a chloroplast is an organelle found in plant and algae cells that contains chlorophyll and is the site where photosynthesis occurs.