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Questions and Answers
What does 'Scaphopoda' mean?
What does 'Scaphopoda' mean?
- sword foot
- spade foot (correct)
- open shell
- flat shell
What are the two main characteristics of Scaphopoda?
What are the two main characteristics of Scaphopoda?
Tusk-shaped conical shell, open at both ends and anterior threadlike adhesive feeding tentacles called captacula.
Scaphopoda lack _____, heart/circulatory system, and osphradium.
Scaphopoda lack _____, heart/circulatory system, and osphradium.
ctenidia
Where are Scaphopoda typically found?
Where are Scaphopoda typically found?
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How do Scaphopoda feed?
How do Scaphopoda feed?
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Scaphopoda reproduce with external fertilization.
Scaphopoda reproduce with external fertilization.
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To which groups do molecular data suggest Scaphopoda are closest?
To which groups do molecular data suggest Scaphopoda are closest?
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Study Notes
Scaphopoda Overview
- "Scaphopoda" translates to "spade foot" in reference to their shell shape.
- This class includes around 300-400 species, ranging in size from 2mm to 15cm.
Characteristics
- Possess a tusk-shaped conical shell that is open at both ends.
- Feature anterior, threadlike, adhesive feeding tentacles known as captacula.
Body Plan
- Display a typical molluscan structure but lack essential systems such as ctenidia, a heart, a circulatory system, and an osphradium, which is usually located in the mantle cavity.
- Possess 100-200 captacula, which are narrow, tentacle-like structures used for feeding.
Habitat
- Exclusively marine organisms found buried in soft substrates with the pointed end of their tusk protruding from the ground.
Feeding Mechanism
- Utilizes captacula that can be everted (turned outwards) into the substrate.
- Captacula tips ensnare small food particles, which are then transported to the mouth for consumption.
Reproductive Characteristics
- Reproduction is gonochoristic, meaning individuals are either male or female.
- External fertilization occurs.
Phylogenetic Context
- Molecular data indicates that Scaphopoda are closely related to either gastropods or cephalopods, suggesting a significant evolutionary connection.
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