INTRODUCTION TO MORPHOLOGY ANIMALIA KINGDOM:ANNELIDA ANIMALIA KINGDOM: MOLLUSCA PLANTAE KINGDOM:PTERIDOPHYTA PLANTAE KINGDOM: BRYOPHYTA ANIMALIA KINGDOM:ARTHROPODA 0 1 0 5 0 6 0 3 0 2 0 4 CON TE N T
PLANTAE KINGDOM BRYOPHYTA PTERIDOPHYTE
Plantae morphology refers to the study of the physical form and structure of plants. The study of plant morphology also involves the investigation of the growth and development of plants, as well as the adaptations of plants to their environment. Plantae morphology is an important area of study in botany, horticulture, agriculture, and other related fields. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. The plant specimen from Phylum Bryophyta is collected from a local enviroment. The specimen is placed on a white tile. The physical structure of the plant is observed carefully using gloves and forcept. The observation is recorded. Step 1-4 is repeated for Phylum Pteridophyta. PLANTAE MORPHOLOGY PROCEDURE
BRYOPHYTA Bryophyta is a division or phylum of non-vascular plants that includes mosses, liverworts, and hornworts. These plants do not have true roots, stems, or leaves, and they lack a vascular system to transport water and nutrients. Instead, they absorb water and nutrients directly through their leaves and stems. Bryophytes are typically found in damp environments, such as wetlands, bogs, and forests. They play an important role in these ecosystems by providing habitat for a variety of organisms and by helping to regulate the water cycle. . STRUCTURE CLASSIFICATION PHYLUM Bryophyta CLASS Dicranidae SPECIES Racomitrium KINGDOM Plantae The main body of the Racomitrium plant is the gametophyte, which is the haploid stage of the moss life cycle. The gametophyte of Racomitrium is a small, tufted plant that grows up to a few centimeters tall. The plant is composed of leafy stems that are densely covered in leaves. The leaves of Racomitrium are small, about 1-3 mm in length, and are arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. The leaves are typically lance-shaped or linear, with a pointed tip, and are often curved or twisted. The leaves have a single vein that runs from the base to the tip. Racomitrium plants also have rhizoids, which are thin, hair-like structures that grow from the base of the plant. Rhizoids anchor the plant to the substrate and absorb water and nutrients from the soil. The sporophyte of Racomitrium is the diploid stage of the moss life cycle, and it is relatively small and inconspicuous compared to the gametophyte. The sporophyte grows from the tip of the gametophyte and consists of a capsule that contains the spores.
U N IQU E C H A R A C TE R ISTI C ADAPTION APPEARANCES HABITAT ECOLOGICAL AND MEDICAL IMPORTANCE Racomitrium moss has a distinctive hairy appearance due to its long, soft, and curved leaves that grow upward and outward from a central stem and can grow up to 10 cm in height and can form dense mats on rocky surfaces. Racomitrium moss is commonly found in rocky areas, including mountain slopes, ridges, and talus fields. It can also grow in other harsh environments such as tundra and polar regions. Racomitrium moss plays an important ecological role by stabilizing rocky substrates, preventing soil erosion, and providing habitat and food for various insects and other small animals. Ecological importance: Racomitrium moss plays an important ecological role by stabilizing rocky substrates, preventing soil erosion, and providing habitat and food for various insects and other small animals. Racomitrium moss has been used in traditional medicine for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties . Racomitrium moss is highly adaptable to extreme weather conditions, including drought and freezing temperatures. It can also grow in nutrient-poor soils and can survive long periods of desiccation.
The life cycle of Racomitrium begins with the germination of haploid spores that are released from the sporophyte of the parent plant. The spores develop into a haploid protonema, which is a thread-like structure that grows and develops into a mature gametophyte. The mature gametophyte of Racomitrium is a small, leafy plant that grows on rocks, soil or other substrates. The gametophyte produces both male and female sex organs called antheridia and archegonia, respectively. When conditions are favorable, sperm cells from the antheridia swim to the archegonia and fertilize the egg cell, resulting in the formation of a diploid zygote. The zygote grows into a sporophyte, which consists of a seta and a capsule that contains spores. The sporophyte is attached to the gametophyte by a foot-like structure called a calyptra. When the sporophyte is mature, the capsule opens and releases haploid spores, which can be carried by the wind to new locations where the life cycle can begin again. REPRODUCTION LIFE CYCLE
There are asexual reproduction and sexual reproduction where Racomitrium reproduces asexually by fragmentation. This occurs when the plant is damaged or disturbed, and a piece of the plant breaks off and establishes a new individual. The sporophyte of Racomitrium produces a capsule that contains spores. The capsule is supported by a slender stalk, which arises from the tip of the gametophyte. The spores are released from the capsule and can be carried by the wind or water to new locations. Once the spores have germinated, the gametophyte produces male and female sex organs called antheridia and archegonia, respectively. The antheridia produce sperm, while the archegonia produce eggs. When the sperm fertilizes the egg, a zygote is formed, which develops into a new sporophyte. REPRODUCTION
PTERIDOPHYTA Pteridophytes are a diverse group of vascular plants that reproduce via spores rather than seeds. Pteridophytes have a complex life cycle that involves an alternation of generations, with a haploid gametophyte stage and a diploid sporophyte stage.Ferns are the most well-known group of pteridophytes, and they are characterized by their fronds and their ability to grow in a wide variety of environments, from rainforests to deserts. Whisk ferns are a group of pteridophytes that lack leaves altogether and instead have thin, green stems that branch dichotomously. STRUCTURE CLASSIFICATION PHYLUM Polypodiophyta CLASS Pteridium SPECIES Pteridium aquilinum KINGDOM Plantae The main stem of the fern is underground and is called the stalk. It is long and creeping, and produces fronds at regular intervals. The rhizome is covered with scales that protect it from desiccation. The fronds of P. aquilinum are large, pinnately compound leaves that can reach up to 3 meters in length. They are divided into many smaller leaflets that are arranged along a central stalk called the rachis. The leaflets are generally triangular or lance-shaped, with a serrated or lobed margin. The undersides of the fronds of P. aquilinum have structures called sori, which are clusters of sporangia that produce and release spores. The sori are typically round or kidney-shaped and are covered by a thin, membranous flap called the indusium. The spores produced by the sporangia of P. aquilinum develop into a small, heart-shaped gametophyte called the prothallus. The prothallus is only a few millimeters in size and is green and photosynthetic. It produces both male and female gametes, which fertilize to form a new sporophyte plant.
U N IQU E C H A R A C TE R ISTI C ADAPTION APPEARANCES HABITAT ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE P. aquilinum has large triangular fronds that can reach up to 3 meters in height, making it one of the largest ferns in the world. The fronds are divided into smaller leaflets that are arranged in a feather-like pattern. The fern has a distinctive reddish-brown stem that is covered in fine hairs. P. aquilinum is a cosmopolitan species found in a wide range of habitats, from temperate to tropical regions, and from sea level to high altitude. It is found on all continents except for Antarctica. The fern is commonly found in disturbed areas such as clearings, roadsides, and burned areas, but can also grow in undisturbed habitats such as forests, grasslands, and wetlands. P. aquilinum plays an important role in the ecosystem as a food source for a variety of herbivorous animals, including deer, moose, and rabbits. The fern also provides habitat for a variety of insects, including butterflies and moths. However, in some areas, P. aquilinum can become invasive and outcompete native vegetation, leading to ecological and economic damage. . P. aquilinum has a deep root system that helps it to survive in nutrient-poor environments. The fern has a unique ability to photosynthesize at low light levels, allowing it to grow in the understory of forests and other shaded environments. P. aquilinum has a high tolerance for fire, and can resprout quickly after a fire event. This is due to its thick, underground rhizomes that store energy reserves.
LIFE CYCLE P. aquilinum reproduces sexually through the production of spores, which are formed on the underside of mature fronds. These spores are dispersed by wind and can grow into a new fern if they land in a suitable environment. When a spore lands on a suitable surface and receives enough moisture and nutrients, it germinates and grows into a small, heart-shaped structure called a gametophyte. The gametophyte produces both male and female reproductive organs, called antheridia and archegonia, respectively. The antheridia produce sperm cells, which swim through a film of water to reach the archegonia and fertilize the egg cells. Once fertilized, the egg develops into a zygote. The zygote develops into a sporophyte, which is the mature fern plant that we see above ground. The sporophyte has roots, a stem, and fronds that are divided into smaller leaflets. The fronds of P. aquilinum are large and triangular in shape, and can reach up to 3 meters in height. Once the sporophyte is mature, it produces spores on the underside of its fronds, completing the life cycle. The spores are dispersed by wind and the cycle starts again.
Pteridium aquilinum reproduces via spores and has a complex life cycle that alternates between a haploid gametophyte and a diploid sporophyte generation. During reproduction, the fern produces spores on the underside of its fronds, which are dispersed by wind. These spores germinate and develop into a haploid gametophyte, which produces both male and female sex organs. When the male sex organs release sperm, they swim through a film of water to the female sex organs, fertilizing the eggs and producing a zygote. The zygote develops into a diploid sporophyte, which is the mature fern that we typically see in the environment. The sporophyte produces spores, completing the life cycle of the fern. This life cycle is known as alternation of generations and is a common feature of most ferns. REPRODUCTION
ANIMALIA KINGDOM MOLLUSCA ARTHRAPODA ANNELIDA Studio Home Design
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. The animal specimen from Phylum Arthropoda is collected from a local enviroment. The specimen is placed on a white tile. The physical structure of the animal is observed carefully using gloves and forcept. The observation is recorded. Step 1-4 is repeated for Phylum Annelida and Mollusca. Animalia morphology is the study of the form and structure of animals. Animal morphology can help us understand the functions of different parts of an animal's body and how they are adapted to different environments, lifestyles, and behaviors. Additionally, animal morphology can be applied to the study of developmental biology, evolutionary biology, and comparative anatomy. ANIMALIA MORPHOLOGY PROCEDURE
Arthropoda is a phylum of invertebrate animals that includes insects, arachnids, crustaceans, and other groups. Arthropods are characterized by their segmented bodies, jointed limbs, and external skeleton or exoskeleton made of chitin. Arthropods are incredibly diverse and are found in almost every habitat on Earth, from the deep sea to the tops of the highest mountains. They play important roles in ecosystems as predators, scavengers, and pollinators. Many arthropods are also important to human societies, either as sources of food, medicine, or as pests that can cause significant economic damage. ARTHROPODA STRUCTURE CLASSIFICATION PHYLUM Arthropoda CLASS Ypthima SPECIES Y. huebneri KINGDOM Animalia Three main body parts, the head, thorax, and abdomen. The butterfly's head contains its sensory organs, including its eyes, antennae, and proboscis. The eyes are large and compound, allowing the butterfly to see in many directions. The antennae are used for sensing odors and other chemical signals, while the proboscis is a long, slender tube that the butterfly uses to feed on nectar. The thorax is the middle section of the butterfly's body and contains its wings and legs. The wings are attached to the thorax by strong muscles, allowing the butterfly to fly and maneuver in the air. The legs are used for perching and walking, as well as for cleaning and grooming the wings. The abdomen is the butterfly's elongated, segmented body section that contains its digestive, reproductive, and respiratory systems. The digestive system includes the butterfly's stomach and intestines, while the reproductive system includes the ovaries or testes. The respiratory system consists of a network of tubes called tracheae that allow the butterfly to breathe.
U N IQU E C H A R A C TE R ISTI C FEEDING APPEARANCES CHARACTERISTIC HABITAT Huebner's Hedge has a wingspan of about 3.5-4.5 cm. The upper surface of the wings is brown with black spots and white markings, while the underside is pale greyish-brown with small black spots. Huebner's Hedge Blue is a fast flier and can often be seen fluttering rapidly in sunny spots. The butterfly is also known to form small colonies and gather around mud puddles to drink water and extract minerals. One unique characteristic of Ypthima huebneri is that it has a distinctive black and white eyespot on the underside of its hindwing. The purpose of the eyespot is believed to be a defense mechanism, as it can startle or confuse predators, making it difficult for them to identify the butterfly's head and tail. This characteristic is not present in all butterfly species and is therefore unique to Ypthima huebneri. This butterfly species is commonly found in grassy areas, including meadows, fields, and open forests. Like most butterflies, Ypthima huebneri feeds on nectar from flowers. Nectar is the main source of food for adult butterflies, as it provides them with the energy and nutrients they need for flight and other activities. However, there is no evidence to suggest that Ypthima huebneri feeds on anything other than nectar.
OLIVIA WILSON WORKBOOK Ypthima huebneri belongs to the subfamily Satyrinae, which is known for its relatively drab and cryptic coloration, as well as its habit of flying close to the ground. Satyrinae is believed to have originated in the Eocene epoch, about 50 million years ago, and has diversified into numerous genera and species since then. The precise evolutionary history of Ypthima huebneri is not well documented, but it is believed to have originated in Southeast Asia, where it is currently found. The butterfly has likely evolved adaptations to its specific habitat, such as its eyespot defense mechanism and its preference for grassy areas. EVOL U TION The evolution of Ypthima huebneri can be traced back to the family Nymphalidae, which is one of the largest and most diverse families of butterflies. Nymphalidae is believed to have originated in the Late Cretaceous period, about 70 million years ago, and has since undergone significant diversification and radiation.
LIFE CYCLE The adult female butterfly lays her eggs on the leaves or stems of the host plant. The eggs are small and spherical, usually less than 1 mm in diameter, and pale yellow in color. The incubation period of the eggs lasts for about 4-7 days. Once the eggs hatch, the larva emerges. The larva or caterpillar is dark green or brown in color with black stripes and spines along the body. It feeds on the host plant leaves and grows rapidly, molting its skin several times as it grows. The larva stage lasts for about 2-3 weeks, depending on the environmental conditions. When the larva is fully grown, it attaches itself to a suitable surface, usually a leaf or stem, and forms a pupa or chrysalis. The pupa is initially green in color but later turns brown. The pupal stage lasts for about 1-2 weeks, during which time the caterpillar undergoes a complete transformation inside the chrysalis, developing wings, legs, and other adult structures. After the pupal stage, the fully-formed adult butterfly emerges from the chrysalis. The adult butterfly has a wingspan of about 2-2.5 cm and is brown with white spots on the upper side of its wings. The underside of the wings is grayish-brown with white spots and black markings. The adult butterfly feeds on nectar from flowers and mates to continue the life cycle. The adult stage lasts for about 1-2 weeks.
REPRODUCTION FEMALE MALE Butterfly Y. huebneri reproduces sexually, with males and females mating to produce offspring. The female butterfly lays eggs on the underside of leaves, usually one at a time. The eggs hatch into caterpillars, which feed on the leaves of the host plant. The caterpillars go through several stages of growth, molting their skin as they get larger. Once they reach full size, they pupate and undergo metamorphosis inside a chrysalis. Inside the chrysalis, the caterpillar transforms into a butterfly over the course of several weeks. When the transformation is complete, the adult butterfly emerges from the chrysalis and begins to mate and reproduce, starting the cycle anew.
ANNELIDA The name Annelida comes from the Latin word annellus, which means 'little ring' referring to the segmented body of these animals. Annelids are bilaterally symmetrical and have a closed circulatory system. Earthworms are perhaps the most familiar type of annelid. They are commonly found in soil and play an important role in soil health, helping to aerate and fertilize the soil. Leeches are another well-known annelid, often used in medicine for their anticoagulant properties. Annelids are a diverse group of animals, with over 22,000 species known to science. They play important roles in many different ecosystems, serving as prey for other animals and playing important roles in nutrient cycling and decomposition. STRUCTURE CLASSIFICATION PHYLUM Annelida CLASS Clitellata SPECIES Clitellum KINGDOM Animalia The structure of a typical worm, such as an earthworm, includes the head is the anterior end of the worm that contains the mouth, sensory organs, and a simple brain. Worms are composed of multiple segments, or rings, that run the length of their body. Each segment contains muscles that allow the worm to move. The body of a worm is composed of layers of muscle, connective tissue, and a thin layer of skin. The skin secretes mucus, which helps the worm to move through soil or other substrates. The coelom is the fluid-filled cavity that surrounds the organs of the worm, providing a cushioning and protective environment for the internal organs. The digestive system of a worm includes a mouth, pharynx, esophagus, crop, gizzard, intestine, and anus. The digestive system is responsible for breaking down food and extracting nutrients from it. Worms have a simple circulatory system that includes a network of vessels that transport blood, nutrients, and waste products throughout the body. The nervous system of a worm includes a simple brain, a ventral nerve cord, and a series of ganglia that coordinate movement and responses to stimuli.
U N IQU E C H A R A C TE R ISTI C FEEDING APPEARANCES HABITAT ECONOMICAL IMPORTANCE Earthworms are typically pinkish-brown in color, and can range in length from just a few centimeters to over a meter. They are segmented, with a narrow head and a broader tail. Earthworms have a long, cylindrical body shape that allows them to burrow through soil easily. They secrete mucus to help lubricate their movement and prevent them from drying out. Earthworms are segmented animals, with each segment containing its own set of muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. This allows them to move independently and flexibly, and also helps them to regenerate if they are damaged. Earthworms are found in soil habitats and are typically pinkishbrown in color. They feed on organic matter in soil, such as dead plant material and soil microorganisms. Earthworms are important for soil health, as they improve soil structure, increase nutrient availability, and aid in water infiltration. Earthworms are important for soil health, as they improve soil structure, increase nutrient availability, and aid in water infiltration. They also play a key role in the carbon and nitrogen cycles, by breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients back into the soil. In addition, earthworms are used as bait for fishing, and their castings (the waste material they excrete) are used as a nutrientrich soil amendment in agriculture. . Earthworms feed on organic matter in soil, such as leaves, roots, and decaying plant material. They use their muscular pharynx to suck in soil and organic material, which they grind up in their muscular gizzard.
OLIVIA WILSON WORKBOOK EVOL U TION The fossil record suggests that annelid worms have been around for at least 500 million years. The oldest known annelid fossils are from the Cambrian period, and are similar in form to modern-day polychaete worms. Earthworms belong to the phylum Annelida, which also includes other segmented worms like leeches and polychaete marine worms. The exact origin and evolution of earthworms is still a subject of debate among scientists. Early annelids likely lived in marine environments, and had simple, worm-like bodies with few specialized structures. Over time, annelids evolved more complex segmentation and specialized structures, like parapodia (flaps of tissue used for movement and feeding in some marine worms). Over time, earthworms evolved into many different species and adapted to a wide range of environments, from temperate forests to tropical grasslands. Today, there are over 6,000 species of earthworms known, with a range of different sizes, colors, and behaviors. Earthworms likely evolved from aquatic ancestors, and made the transition to terrestrial environments over millions of years. Terrestrial earthworms likely evolved specialized adaptations for burrowing through soil, like their elongated, cylindrical body shape, and their ability to secrete mucus for lubrication.
LIFE CYCLE P. aquilinum reproduces sexually through the production of spores, which are formed on the underside of mature fronds. These spores are dispersed by wind and can grow into a new fern if they land in a suitable environment. When a spore lands on a suitable surface and receives enough moisture and nutrients, it germinates and grows into a small, heart-shaped structure called a gametophyte. The gametophyte produces both male and female reproductive organs, called antheridia and archegonia, respectively. The antheridia produce sperm cells, which swim through a film of water to reach the archegonia and fertilize the egg cells. Once fertilized, the egg develops into a zygote. The zygote develops into a sporophyte, which is the mature fern plant that we see above ground. The sporophyte has roots, a stem, and fronds that are divided into smaller leaflets. The fronds of P. aquilinum are large and triangular in shape, and can reach up to 3 meters in height. Once the sporophyte is mature, it produces spores on the underside of its fronds, completing the life cycle. The spores are dispersed by wind and the cycle starts again.
REPRODUCTION Pteridium aquilinum reproduces via spores and has a complex life cycle that alternates between a haploid gametophyte and a diploid sporophyte generation. During reproduction, the fern produces spores on the underside of its fronds, which are dispersed by wind. These spores germinate and develop into a haploid gametophyte, which produces both male and female sex organs. When the male sex organs release sperm, they swim through a film of water to the female sex organs, fertilizing the eggs and producing a zygote. The zygote develops into a diploid sporophyte, which is the mature fern that we typically see in the environment. The sporophyte produces spores, completing the life cycle of the fern. This life cycle is known as alternation of generations and is a common feature of most ferns.
MOLLUSCA Mollusca is a phylum of animals that includes a diverse group of invertebrates, including snails, clams, octopuses, and squid. There are over 100,000 known species of mollusks, making them one of the most diverse animal phyla.Mollusks occupy a variety of habitats, including marine, freshwater, and terrestrial environments. They play important roles in their ecosystems, serving as food for many predators and participating in nutrient cycling. Many mollusks are also important economically, as a source of food, pearls, and other valuable products. However, some mollusk species can become invasive and cause ecological and economic damage. STRUCTURE CLASSIFICATION PHYLUM Mollusca CLASS Gastropoda SPECIES Helix pomatia KINGDOM Animalia The most prominent feature of Helix pomatia is its shell, which is spiral-shaped and typically measures about 4-5 cm in diameter. The shell is made of calcium carbonate and consists of several whorls that increase in size as they spiral outward. The outer surface of the shell is smooth and shiny, while the inner surface is pearly and iridescent. Helix pomatia has a large muscular foot that is used for locomotion. The foot is covered in mucus, which helps the snail to slide over rough surfaces without getting damaged. Helix pomatia has two pairs of tentacles, which are located on its head. The upper pair is longer and has eyes at the tips, while the lower pair is shorter and is used for sensing the environment. The mantle is a fold of skin that covers the snail's body and secretes the shell. In Helix pomatia, the mantle is thick and fleshy, and is responsible for the snail's unique coloration. Helix pomatia has a radula, which is a tongue-like structure covered in rows of tiny teeth. The radula is used for scraping and grinding food, which is then ingested by the snail.
U N IQU E C H A R A C TE R ISTI C FEEDING APPEARANCES HABITAT ECONOMICAL IMPOSTANCE H. pomatia has a large, globular shell that can reach up to 4 cm in diameter. The shell is typically brownish-yellow with dark brown bands, and has a characteristic spiral shape. H. pomatia has a large, globular shell that can reach up to 4 cm in diameter. The shell is typically brownish-yellow with dark brown bands, and has a characteristic spiral shape. The snail's body is soft and slimy, and can be retracted into the shell for protection. H. pomatia is found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, meadows, and gardens. The snail prefers moist environments with a moderate temperature and adequate food supply. H. pomatia is often found in limestone areas, as the calcium in the soil is necessary for shell growth. Ecological role as a herbivore, H. pomatia is also considered a delicacy in some cultures and is raised commercially for food in certain areas. Its shells are also used for decorative purposes. However, H. pomatia populations have declined in some areas due to habitat loss, pollution, and over-harvesting. . H. pomatia is a herbivore, feeding on a variety of plants including clover, lettuce, and dandelion. The snail uses its radula, a specialized tongue-like organ, to scrape and rasp away at its food.
OLIVIA WILSON WORKBOOK EVOL U TION The first mollusks evolved over 500 million years ago, during the Cambrian period. These early mollusks were likely small, softbodied creatures that lived in oceans. The evolution of Helix pomatia, like that of other mollusks, is a complex process that spans millions of years. The following is a brief overview of some of the major events and adaptations that have shaped the evolutionary history of this species: Over time, mollusks evolved a variety of specialized structures, such as shells and radulas, that helped them survive in different environments and feed on different types of food. Helix pomatia is believed to have evolved around 60 million years ago, during the Paleocene epoch. It is thought to have originated in central Europe and then spread to other parts of the continent over time. Like other land snails, Helix pomatia has evolved a number of adaptations to life on land, such as a specialized respiratory system and a water-conserving excretory system. Over the course of its evolution, Helix pomatia has likely faced a variety of challenges, such as changes in climate and habitat loss. However, the species has persisted and remains a common sight in many parts of Europe today. The first land snails appeared around 300 million years ago, during the Carboniferous period. These early snails likely evolved from aquatic ancestors and had to adapt to life on land.
REPRODUCTION LIFE CYCLE Helix pomatia, commonly known as the Roman snail or escargot, is a species of land snail that is widely distributed in Europe. The life cycle of Helix pomatia is similar to that of other terrestrial snails, and it includes several stages which is reproduction.Helix pomatia is hermaphroditic, meaning that it has both male and female reproductive organs. The snails mate and fertilize each other's eggs, laying them in clutches in the soil. The eggs hatch into small, transparent snails that undergo embryonic development within the egg capsule. Once fully developed, the juvenile snails emerge from the egg capsule and begin to feed. The juvenile snails feed on a variety of plants and other organic matter, growing larger and developing their shells. As they grow, the snails periodically shed their skin, a process known as ecdysis. Helix pomatia typically reaches sexual maturity at around two years of age. At this stage, they become reproductively active and begin to mate and lay eggs. As Helix pomatia age, their shells become thicker and more heavily calcified. Eventually, the snails enter a period of senescence, during which their reproductive output declines and they become more susceptible to disease and predation.
REPRODUCTION Helix pomatia reproduces sexually, meaning that it requires the exchange of genetic material between two individuals to produce offspring. the reproductive process of Helix pomatia, during mating, two snails come together and exchange sperm. Each snail uses its love dart, a sharp, calcareous structure, to pierce the other snail's skin and inject sperm into the body cavity. The sperm travels through the body cavity to the female reproductive organs, where it fertilizes the eggs. The eggs are then laid in a nest in the soil, usually in the late summer or early fall. The eggs hatch into small snails, which feed on plant material and grow slowly over several years. Helix pomatia can live up to 20 years in the wild. Helix pomatia is capable of self-fertilization, but this is relatively rare. In most cases, snails mate with other individuals to increase genetic diversity. REPRODUCTION
DISCUSSION We need to be careful when handling specimen. Make sure to clean the surface of the specimen, so that it is easily to be observed Were gloves and lab coat for safety 1. 2. 3. Morphology is the study of the form, structure, and function of living organisms, including their physical features, anatomical structures, and developmental processes. Morphology is important for identifying and classifying different species of organisms. By studying the structure of different organs and tissues, scientists can better understand their functions and how they contribute to an organism's overall health and survival. Morphology is important for medical research, particularly in the fields of pathology and histology. By studying the physical features of organisms, scientists can reconstruct their evolutionary history and how they adapted to different environments over time. Morphology is important for conservation biology, particularly for identifying and monitoring endangered species. CONCLUSION
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