Hi... What is the term used to describe the movement involving the seperation of segments becoming shorter and fatter in earthworms? (Phylum: Annelida)
2007-05-22 04:06:38 · 4 answers · asked by godrics 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Zoology
Peristalsis.
2007-05-22 04:10:11 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Those movements are just called muscle contractions. As the body changes shape, it clings to the surrounding soil by means of bristles called setae. Without this traction, the muscle contractions would not enable forwards movement.
Although the shape of the movement is very similar to peristalsis, "peristalsis" refers specifically and exclusively to the contraction of smooth muscles in the digestive system, and therefore not to locomotion.
2007-05-22 04:11:04 · answer #2 · answered by DavidK93 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Peristalsis, probably.
2007-05-22 04:10:18 · answer #3 · answered by Brian L 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
gaining and losing weight
2007-05-22 08:03:50 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋