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Starfish and clownfish are both referred to as fish, which indicates their relatedness and that their life functions have substantial similarities - NSC Marine Sciences - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 2
Question 4
Starfish and clownfish are both referred to as fish, which indicates their relatedness and that their life functions have substantial similarities. In an essay, cri... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Starfish and clownfish are both referred to as fish, which indicates their relatedness and that their life functions have substantial similarities - NSC Marine Sciences - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
State your opinion with a motivation whether the above statement is valid.
Answer
I believe that the statement is not entirely valid. While both starfish and clownfish inhabit marine environments and share a common colloquial label as 'fish', they belong to different biological classifications. Starfish are echinoderms, whereas clownfish are part of the class Actinopterygii, which emphasizes their distinct evolutionary paths and biological characteristics.
Step 2
Discuss, in detail, symmetry and external structures of both organisms.
Answer
Starfish exhibit pentaradial symmetry as adults, which aids in their lifestyle as benthic organisms. They possess skin covered by ossicles, providing protection and support. Their external structures include various features such as:
- Ambulacral grooves: These grooves facilitate movement along the substrate.
- Tube feet: These structures assist in locomotion and feeding, equipped with suction capabilities to manipulate prey.
- Madreporite: A structure aiding in water entry for the water-vascular system that controls the tube feet.
In contrast, clownfish demonstrate bilateral symmetry, common in fish, which supports streamlined movement in aquatic environments. Their external structures include:
- Fins: Clownfish have pectoral, pelvic, dorsal, anal, and caudal fins that enhance mobility.
- Scales: Covered by a mucus layer, these scales provide protection against pathogens and facilitate fluid dynamics in water.
- Lateral line system: This sensory line helps detect vibrations and currents, crucial for navigation and predator avoidance.
Step 3
Argue if and why it is necessary to classify organisms into different groups.
Answer
Classifying organisms is essential for several reasons:
- Clarity in communication: It promotes better understanding and clarity among scientists regarding species identification.
- Ecological studies: Accurate classification is vital for studying ecosystems, as it helps in understanding species roles and interactions within their habitats.
- Conservation efforts: Proper classification aids in recognizing species under threat, allowing for targeted conservation strategies.
- Scientific research: Classification facilitates comparative studies, enhancing our understanding of evolutionary relationships and biological diversity.