So far, biologists have discovered 2,70,000 species of vascular

plants and more than 15 lac species of animals. A lot of

diversity is observed across these species. Despite their
differences, they were categorized systematically for efficient
observation and study based on different characteristics. This
chapter discusses those differences and categories.
Animal Diversity
The specific, genetic and ecological differences across all aerial, terrestrial and aquatic animals
is together called animal diversity which is seen across different sectors including physical
structure, food habits, reproduction, migration etc. every animal is different from another due
to these differences. Different visible and invisible species roam across this complex and diverse
environment of the earth. Some group together in the deep sea or the surface, some speed
across the land or take their time doing so, some are hanging from trees, some are migrating in
huge flocks and still others are so small that they are barely visible with the help of
microscopes. Some of them are herbivores,
,carnivores, omnivores and some parasites.
Types of Animal Diversity
Animal diversity is of three types:

1.Genetic Diversity
The diversity across animals of a certain
species due to differences in their genetic
makeup is called genetic diversity. Since this diversity exists across animals of the same species
so it is called intraspecific diversity. For example- although an African man with dark skin is the
same species as a white-skinned Australian (Homo sapiens), differences are seen in their
physical structure, complexion, hair color etc. These differences arise for genetic reasons.
Up until recent times these genetic differences were only applied for domestic animals or
animals under captivity, now they're also applied in the cases of wild animals.

2. Species Diversity
The diversity that exists across animals of all different species is called Species Diversity.
Animals of two different species are never the same. Animals belonging to the same genus are
seen to have vast differences in the number of their chromosomes and their physical
structures. This type of diversity is called interspecific diversity. For example - Bengal tiger
(Panthera tigris) and the lion (Panthera leo) are of different Species. Although they share the
same genus, they differ from each other based on the number of the chromosomes in their
genes and how those genes are distributed.

3. Ecosystem Diversity
The interrelationship of animals and the varying climates and environment creates unique
environmental units or biomes. Like - desert biomes, forest biomes, grassland biomes etc. each
biome consists of its own set of unique species. The diversity that is seen across the animals is
these biomes are called ecological diversity. Polar bears of tundra biomes and the bears of
forest biomes are examples of this ecological diversity.
 BASIS OF CLASSIFICATION
1. Body shape
2. Levels of Organization
3. Way of living
4. Cleavage & development
5. Germ layers
6. Symmetry
7. Metamerism or Segmentation
8. Tagmatization
9. Polarity
10. Planes
11. Coelom
12. Notochord
13. Alimentary Canal
14. Appendages(ALIM SIR)
Basis of Animal Classification
Each animal has its own characteristics. These characteristics are
expressed by way of physical structure, size, symmetry,
segmentation, body cavity, sex, life cycle etc. These characteristics
are prioritized based on the classification of these animals. Some of
these traits are mentioned below :

1. Body shape
A. Micro-animal : These animals cannot be seen without the help of
a microscope.
B. Macro-animal : these animals are easily seen with the naked eye.

2. Levels of Organization
A. Cellular level organization : The cells are arranged loosely in the body and
they do not form tissue. Example - all animals of the kingdom Porifera
B. Cell-Tissue level of organization : In this car cells arising from the same
place and performing the same functions form
LEVEL OF ORG:
different types of tissues. For example - all
Cellular: Porifera (1st )
animals of the phylum Cnidaria.
Cell-Tissue: Cnidaria (2nd )
C. Tissue-Organ grade level of organization :
Some cells group together to form tissue and
Tissue-Organ: Platyhel (3rd )
some tissues group together to form organs. Organ-system: rest (4th – 9th )
When a number of organs with together to achieve some bodily functions then
they are together called organ system. Different organ systems together form
an animal body. Every animal from Platyhelminthes fall under this.
D. Organ-System grade level of organization :
This system is found in all developed animals. They have well-structured
functioning systems which help in respiration, digestion, excretion etc. This
first appeared in Nemartean sea animals.
3. Way of living :
A. Free-living : These animals roam freely and they do not require
mutual cooperation to live. For example - pigeons (Columba livia)
B. Parasite : These organisms depend on other organisms for their
food and do so residing on the bodies of their hosts. For example -
flat worms (Fasciola hepatica)

4. Cleavage and development:

The process by which unicellular zygote turns into
multicellular embryo through the process of mitosis is called
cleavage. Based on the amount of yolk, cleavage is of
complete (holoblastic) or incomplete (meroblastic) type.
During cleavage, in the egg, pole containing the yolk part is
called vegetal pole & the other pole containing nucleus has
the name animal pole.

Based on divisional plane, cleavage is of 3 types, viz-

a. Radial Cleavage: the plane divides the zygote radially and
equally. Ex- Arthropoda.
b. Bilateral Cleavage: Upto 2nd stage, division happens
radially then division occurs bilaterally. Ex- Chordata
c. Spiral Cleavage: Spiral cleavage is found in Annelida &
Mollusca. It’s also seen in Aves, Reptiles & Pieces.
 5. Germ Layers :
The zygotes of the animals which reproduce sexually divide in the process of
cleavage and form blastomeres. These cells later get arranged into solid
morula and hollow blastula. Then they transform into double or triple layered
gastrula. Germ layer plays a major role in the primary classification of animals.
Based on germ layers animals can be divided into two types :
A. Diploblastic Animals: The animals which have only ectoderm and endoderm
in their germinal gastrula phase are called Diploblastic Animals. There is
acellular mesoglea between the two layers. Animals of the phylum Cnidaria
(Hydra) are diploblastic.
B. Triploblastic Animals: The animals which have three layers in their germinal
gastrula phase are called Triploblastic Animals. Starting from Platyhelminthes
(tape worm - Taenia solium ) to Chordata (humans- Homo sapiens) all animals
are triploblastic. These layers create different organs in the animal bodies.

Difference in between diploblastic & triptoblastic animals :

Traits Diploblastic animals Triptoblastic animals

1.Germ Layers Ectoderm & endoderm Ectoderm, Mesoderm & Endoderm

2.Mesoglea present Absent

3.Germ layer fate Can’t form tissue or organ Can form tissue, organ & system

4.Nematosis present absent

5.Polyp & medusa phase Either one or both phase present absent

6.Body cavity Gastrovascular cavity or Coelom

coelenteron
6. Symmetry :
The same size, shape and structure of an animal body across its divisions about a
central axis are together called symmetry. The animals which can be divided along
some plane of symmetry are called symmetrical animals. The animals whose
bodies cannot be divided into these similar sections are called asymmetrical
animals. Animal bodies display a range of symmetry.
A. Spherical Symmetry : Just as a sphere can be cut
into similar halves along any plane, similarly animals
SPHERICAL:
displaying spherical symmetry can also be divided into He drives Volvo with Radio
equal sections along an axis cutting through them. For
example - Volvox, Radiolaria, Heliozoa etc. unicellular animals.
B. Radial Symmetry: if an animal can be cut into two or more equal halls by the
central axis running across their cylindrical bodies, then
it is called Radial Symmetry. Hydra, jellyfish (Aurelia), RADIAL :
Sea animon (Meridium) and related animals which have Hydra eats Jelly in Sea
mouth at one end of their tubular bodies display this
type of symmetry.
C. Bi-radial Symmetry : The animals which have body components arranged with
similar parts in either side of a central axis and each of the four sides of the body
is identical to the opposite sides but different from the
adjacent side are said to have Bi-radial symmetry. This type BI-RADIAL : ‘C’
of symmetry is seen in Ctenophores. For example : despite
being primarily radial, the two tentacles of Ceoloplana make them biradially
symmetrical.
D. Bilateral symmetry
When an animal can be divided into two equal halves along its sagittal plane
about a central axis, it is called Bilateral symmetry. For example - butterfly (Pieris
brassicae), frog (Hoplobatrachus tigerinus/ Fejervarya asmati), humans (Homo
sapiens) etc.
E. Asymmetry
When an animal cannot be divided into equal halves along any of its planes then it
is called asymmetry. Example - Sponge (Cliona celata), Snail (Pila globosa) etc
ASYMMETRY :
Spongy Snail
7. Metamerism or Segmentation
The phenomenon of having a series of body segments fundamentally similar in
structure is called Metamerism. Each segment is called metamere or somite.
Animals can be segmented in various ways.
a. Homonymous Metamere: When the metameres are same or similar in
structure they are called homonymous metameres. Example- the segmentation in
earthworms

b. Heteronomous Metamere: When the metameres are different or unequal in

structure, they are called heteronomous metameres. Example- segmentation in
insects

c. Asegmental: These types of animals do not have any segmentation in their

bodies. Example- sea star, oyster etc.

8. Tagmatization
Despite bodies of arthropods have certain segments, these segments
are not distinct and some of these segments merge together to form
certain regions across the body. Each such section is called tagmata.
This division of the bodies of arthropods into these regions is called
Tagmata. Tagmatization is a key trait in the categorization of
arthropods.
9. Polarity

The polarization of the animal body based on the position of the mouth
and head is called polarity. The end which has the head is called the
anterior end. The end opposite to the anterior is called the posterior
end. Again the end which contains the mouth is called the oral end and
the other end is called the aboral end.

10. Planes

The body planes are important for the classification of symmetrical

animals. The area about which the animal's body is divided into left or
right, longitudinal or transverse and frontal or rear sections is called the
plane of separation. The animal body usually has three planes-

a. Median or Sagittal Plane: The plane along which the central,

dorsal and ventral regions are divided into equal right and left
sections is called the median r sagittal plane.
b. Frontal Plane: The plane about which the body can be divided
into the ventral and dorsal regions is called the frontal plane.
c. Transverse Plane: The plane which stands perpendicular to the
median plane and the animal body is divided into the posterior
and anterior ends along it is called the transvers plane.
11. Coelom

The body cavity in triploblastic animals between the digestive canal and
body wall arising from the mesoderm and lined by the peritoneum is
called the coelom. Animals are divided into the following types based
on the presence of their coeloms:

a. Acoelomate: the bodies of these animals

ACOELOMATE:
are filled with mesodermal spongy
PC. P→ Pori, Platy
parenchyma instead of coelom during C→ Cnida, Cteno
their germinal phase. Porifera, Cnidaria,
Ctenophora, Platyhelminthes etc. are acoelomate animals.

b. Pseudocoelomate: these animals do not have

PSEUDOCOELOMATE:
a true coelom however during their germinal
phase, their blastocoels are covered with a NARKEL
layer of mesodermal cells. But these cells
never form a complete peritoneal membrane
nem Roti Kino Loa loa (Eye
and surround the blastocoel completely. worm)
Nematoda, Rotifera, Kinoryncha etc. are
Pseudocoelomate.

c. Eucoelomate: The bodies of these animals EUCOELOMATE:

contain true coelom because the coelom is Everything other than a+b
created from the germinal mesoderm as a
cavity and it is completely surrounded by the flat peritoneum
layer composed of mesodermal epithelial cells. Eucoelomates are
considered the more developed animals. Mollusca, Annelida,
Arthropoda, Echinodermata, Hemichordata, and Chordata etc. are
Eucoelomate.
12. Notochord: The flexible, elastic, porous tube of tissue found in the embryonic
stage or throughout life of animals is called notochord. Based on the notochord,
animals are divided into two types:
a. Nonchordate: The bodies of these animals never contain notochords.
Example- Earthworm, grasshopper, mosquito
b. Chordate: These animals have notochord throughout life or at least
during the embryonic stage. Example: Humans, frog, snake etc.

13. Alimentary Canal: Based on the presence or absence of alimentary canal,

animals can be divided into two types:

a. Parazoa: The animals which do not have any alimentary canals in

their bodies are called Parazoa. Example: Porifera
b. Enterozoa: The animals which have alimentary canals are called
Enterozoa. Example- animals belonging to phyla Cnidaria to
Chordata.
Principles of Animal Classification
Classification is a systematic science. Lots of little details and rules need to be considered in
classification. The main principles are stated below:

• Allocating Taxonomic Character: Identification of the traits which differentiate or have

the potential of differentiating two separate taxons is an important step. During
classification each of the traits that consist of an animal of a particular taxon needs to be
stated.
• Identification: Some times during classification it is possible to come across a species
which has been previously classified or is unknown to the researcher that does not
mean that a new taxon has been identified. So one needs to be careful in this
identification and set up comparative studies between similar species for proper
identification of each taxon.
• Categorization or Ranking: The animals which are separated into different steps or
categories for the sake of taxonomy, they are called taxons. Taxon is the taxonomic unit.
That is, each animal and animal species bound in a certain rank in the taxonomic steps is
member of a taxon. Example- Animalia, Chordata, Mammalia, Primates, Hominidae,
Homo, Homo sapiens each is a separate taxon. Animals which are evolutionarily similar
and bear the same or similar characteristics are grouped under the same taxon. there
are seven mandatory categories or steps in taxonomy: Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order,
Family, Genus and Species.
• Nomenclature: The identity given to each animal or animal species by their unique
names is called nomenclature. After rigorous research if an animal is found to be a new
discovery then it is given a name according to the ICZN policies of nomenclature.
Swedish scientist Carolus Linnaeus first introduced a system of naming. It is known as
the Binomial Nomenclature System. According to this system, each species has two
parts to its official name, the first part describing its genus and the second part
describing the species name. the first letter of the genus is written in capital letters
while the species name is entirely in small letters. These names are Latin or derived
from Latin origin. Nomenclature following these set of rules is called Binomial
Nomenclature. Sometimes differences are observed in members of the same species
with differences in their habitats. Those members are then considered subspecies of the
animals of the whole species. In those cases the genus and species names are followed
by the subspecies names and it is termed as trinomial nomenclature. For example, the
name of the European sparrow is Passer domesticus. But the scientific names of
sparrows living in the Nile region is Passer domesticus niloticus. Bird scientist Schlegel
(1844) first introduced the trinomial nomenclature system and it is approved by the
ICZN.
 The naming of any organism is highly complex and this is done by following the proper
set of rules. These rules are enforced by the International Commission on Zoological
Nomenclature (ICZN) and the rules are written in the International Code on Zoological
Nomenclature (ICZN)
Preservation: The identified sample needs to be preserved properly (with the name of the
discoverer, time, date and place of discovery) in order to aid future identification of the species.
This is why the samples of different animals are preserved in natural museums, official
preservation areas in college or universities with Government approval. The sample can be
stuffed animal, skin or different parts of the animal (horns, fur, excrement etc.) or skeleton.
Animal bodies can also be preserved in dry or liquid media. Formalin and alcohol are good
media for preservation. Different animal species require different amount of alcohol and
formalin for preservation. So this is an important step for classification.

BASIS/UNIT of Classification : Species

Father of animal Kingdom : Aristotle

Father of Modern classification + Binomial Nomenclature: Carolus Linneaus

Father of Trinomial Nomenclature: Bird Scientist Schlegel

Classification of Animal Kingdom
The different levels of classification are generally divided into Major Phyla and Minor Phyla.
They are not categorized on the basis of interrelated evolutionary patterns rather they are
classified based on the number of species, the importance of them in their ecosystems and the
clear distinctions they can present as a species.

1. Major Phyla: The phyla with large number of members (greater than 5000 species), the
members play a big role in the overall ecosystem and they show some distinct
characteristics as separate members of a phylum, they are called Major Phyla.
2. Minor Phyla: The phyla which have little or limited number of members in their species,
the species play very little role in the ecosystem and their taxonomic positions or traits
are indistinct or debated are called Minor Phyla.
In this book the taxonomy of animals is presented as per the Hickman et al (2008). According to
this type of classification, the animal kingdom has 33 phyla.

Major Phyla of Animal Kingdom:

Based on the flexible, elastic, porous tube of tissue found in the embryonic
stage or throughout life of animals called notochord, the animal kingdom can be
divided into two groups: Chordata and Nonchordata.

The animals which never have notochords at any phase of their lives are called
Nonchordata. They have solid, ventral and glandular nerve chords, pharyngeal
slits and tails at anterior ends are absent. On the other hand, the animals which
have notochords in their bodies, nervous systems are hollow and dorsal,
pharyngeal slits and anterior tails are present is called Chordata.

Nonchordata animals are divided into the 8 main phyla as described below:
Phylum 1: Porifera:
[Grant first named the phylum in 1836. Porus= hole + ferre= to carry. Total
identified species= 8,659]

Among the animals members of Porifera phylum are the oldest and least complex
structurally. They are called Porifera because of the innumerable holes all over
their bodies. Generally they are known as sponges. They look similar to branched
trees, flower vase, bell or bowl shaped. Their body diameter is about 1mm to 2m
approximately. Some are dull grey, some brightly colored. The majority of them
are marine animals. Approximately 150 species are fresh water residents.
Characteristics of Porifera:

1. They are organisms with cell level organization; the cells are not arranged
definitely and tissue system is absent.
2. The body wall is filled with holes called ostia.
3. A canal system is seen as an alternative to the body's circulatory system.
This unique system produces water currents on which sponges depend for
food, oxygen and reproduction.
4. Skeletal system is formed with outwardly protruding calcareous spicules
and a modified fibrous collagen called spongin.
5. The body has one or more compartments lined on the inside by flagellated
cells called choanocytes.
6. The canal system merges with a cavity named spongocoel and finally
terminates at the end of the tubular body with an opening called osculum.
7. Adult animals are sessile; they permanently attach with an object
8. Larval phase namely Amphiblastula or Parenchymula is present.
EXAMPLE: -> Motka Sponge,Red Sponge,Freshwater sponge,Bath sponge

SPONGE SCOOP : S → Sessile, Spicule, Spongin, Spongocoel

C → Cell-organization, Canal system, Choanocyte/Collar cell (Alim Sir)
O → Ostium, Osculum
P → Parenchyma/Amphiblastula
Phylum 2 : Cnidaria
[Greek knide=nettle+ Latin aria= connected. Named in 1888 by Hatschek, Number of living
species=10,203]

Animals belonging to this phylum are radially symmetrical on the one hand and on the other
hand they are cell-tissue grade structured animals. A majority of the animals are immobile,
some of them are free swimmers. The round Jelly like animals found in sea beaches are jellyfish
which are members of the Cnidaria phylum. They play a big role in adding the colors to the
ocean because of their wide range of colorful members. Coral and animals in the coral reefs are
members of this phylum. For this reason Cnidarian animals are called the flowers of the sea.
25% of all Marine animals live in the coral reefs of the earth. For this reason coral reefs are
called the rain forests of the ocean.

Characteristics of Cnidaria

1. They are radially symmetrical and structurally they are cell tissue grade animals
2. Adult body is two layered (diploblastic) with epidermis and gastrodermis derived from
the embryonic ectoderm and endoderm respectively. Sticky Jelly like acellular substance
called mesoglea is present in between the two layers. In some cases the mesoglea
contains amebocyte and connective tissue (ectomesoderm)
3. Special stinging cell organelles call nematocysts are present inside cnidocyte cells. They
are present in the highest numbers along the tentacles. The animals can protect
themselves, consume food and keep the body clean using these cells.
4. Incomplete gut called coelenteron or the gastrovascular cavity is present with a single
opening that serves as both mouth and anus.
5. Digestion is both intracellular and extracellular
6. A lot of the species are polymorphous. Their primary units are polyp and Medusa. Polyp
is immobile and asexual; medusa is free and capable of reproduction.
7. Only 20 species of cnidarians reside in freshwater, the rest of the species are marine
animals.
8. Larval stage is Plannula

EXAMPLE: Hydra, Jellyfish

Phylum 3 Platyhelminthes or flatworm
[platys= flat+ helminth=worms. This phylum was named in 1859 by Gogenbour. the total
number of species is 29,487]

Among the animals this is the first triploblastic animal. They are the first animals to
demonstrate tissue organ grade structure. These animals are flat like leaves or ribbons so they
are called flatworms. A majority of flatworms are parasitic. However some flatworms live freely
in water or in land. Numerous flatworms are microscopic, but they have also been found to be
as long as 30 M in length.

Characteristics of Platyhelminthes

1. Body is soft, bilaterally symmetrical and flattened dorsoventrally.

2. Epidermis is ciliated or covered by cuticle
3. Despite being triploblastic animals they are acoelomate
4. They only have digestive canals
5. The cavity between different organs is filled with parenchyma cells or mesenchyme
6. In a lot of cases external sucker or hook or both are present
7. Circulatory and respiratory systems are absent. Excretory system bears flame cells.
8. Majority of them are parasites. Some of the species absorb nutrition directly with their
Body Walls. Some are free living
9. The animal of this phylum are bisexual; fertilization is internal
There are different types of larva phases in the life cycle of flatworms.
10. They cause snail fever or Schistosomiasis
EXAMPLE: Blood worm (Schistosomia mansoni), Liver fluke (Fasciola hepatica), Pork
tapeworm (Taenia Solium)

A Flame Cell Sucked The Digestive Canal Only

A- Acoelomate
C- Cuticle
Suck-Sucker
T- Triptoblastic
Digestive Canal Only (Other systems absent)
Phylum 4 : Nematoda/ Nemathelminthes or roundworm
[Greek nematos= thread + eidos= shape + helminth= worm. Number of living species= 25,033]

Animal of the phylum Nematoda are called thread worm or round worm. They are organ
system grade animals. Majority of the 25000 types of roundworms are parasitic. They are the
greatest number of Pseudocoelomate animals. All ecological environments have roundworms
in them. The parasites of this phylum are very harmful to humans, cattle and agriculture. The
non-parasitic roundworms live on bacteria, yeast, fungus and algae.

Characteristics of Nematoda:

1. Their body is elongated, tubular, and bilaterally symmetrical with tapering ends. They
range from microscopic to up to 1 m in length.
2. Their body is unsegmented and Pseudocoelomate.
3. The body is soft; covered with acellular cuticle made of elastin
4. Alimentary canal is straight and unbranched, extended from mouth to anus; for this
reason these animals are called tube within a tube.
5. Mouth opening is generally encircled by characteristic lips
6. Respiratory system and circulatory system are absent
7. Most of the animals are heterosexual, sexual dimorphism is observed
8. They are Terrestrial or aquatic; free living or parasitic.
EXAMPLE: Eyeworm(loa loa) ; Roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides) ;
Trichonella spiralis ; Filaria worm (Wuchereria bancrofti)
[ when the male and female members of the same species are different in size, shape
and structure it is called sexual dimorphism]

Ela is displayed under &

Within PSweet, Cute Criteria

Ela- Elastin
D- diamorphism
Un- Unsegmented
Within- tube within tube
Rsweet- Pseudocoeloate
Cute- Cuticle
Phylum 5: Mollusca or Komboj animal (which is translated as Mollusc)
[Latin molluscus= soft. Aristotle first named this phylum. Number of living species= 84,977]

Mollusca are the second largest phylum of the animal world. They are only second to
arthropods in number. The members of this phylum are shelled Nonchordates. Snail, clam,
octopus, sepia, loligo are members of this phylum. Affluent personnel in the 18th and 19th
century collected snail shells. Collecting Snail shell was prevalent among students of renowned
Schools.

Characteristics of the phylum Mollusca:

1. The body is soft, muscular and unsegmented

2. Coelomate, most of them are bilaterally symmetrical (excluding gastropods) and have
well defined head
3. Body is covered by soft membrane called mantle. The secretions from the mantle form
the shell. Usually the animal stays inside the shell.
4. Body cavity is very constricted and they have haemocoel
5. Ventral body wall specializes as a muscular foot
6. Alimentary canal is contorted; and sometimes shaped like the letter u. The mouth
contains a chitin formed structure called Radula (except Bivalvia)
7. Gaseous exchange is done by gills, lungs, Mantle cavity or body surface
8. Blood contains haemocyanin and amebocyte particles
9. The anterior end of the body contains heart, blood vessels and haemocoel that is they
have a half open circulatory system
10. Most of the animals live in saline water, some live in freshwater inside holes
11. Animals of this phylum are heterosexual and lay eggs.
EXAMPLE:

Mental Himu listens to Radio

Mental → Mantle, Muscular
foot
Himu →Haemocyanin,
Haemocoel
Radio → Radula
Phylum 6 Annelida / Ringworms
[ Latin annulus= small ring + eidos= form. Lamarck named the phylum in 1890. Total number of
living species 17388.]

They are different in their physical structure. Besides being organ system grade animals, they
are also bilaterally symmetrical and triploblastic. Annelids have central nervous and more
complex vascular system. They are widespread on the earth. Some Species are available in
every country. A lot of them are marine, they live under the sea or on the. Animals like earth
worms or leeches are residents of freshwater or are terrestrial. The Terrestrial live in mud or
sand inside holes, or under leaves in damp areas. Some leeches suck blood. They play a very big
role in different ecosystems.
Characteristics of annelids:

1. Their bodies are long, tubular, and bilaterally symmetrical and covered in cuticle.
2. The segmentation is present. Body is divided into ring like metameres. They move with
the help Of parapodia or chitinous organs called setae .
3. Excretory system is typically consisting of a pair of nephridia for each segment.
4. They have closed circulatory system and blood is red colored. Hemoglobin,
haemoerythrin or chlorocruerine is present in the plasma.
5. Alimentary canal is tubular and complete
6. A free swimming larval phase is observed called trochophore.
Members of Annelida live in fresh water and salt water or they are terrestrial. A lot of them are
independent but some are parasitic.
Example: Earthworm (Metaphire posthuma) , Leech (Hirudenia medicinalis)

My TONY SIN
M→ Metamere
T→ Trocophore
N→ Nephridia
S→ Segmentation,
Setae
Phylum 7 Arthropoda

(Greek arthros= articulated + podos= legs. Siebold named it in 1845. Total number of living
species 1257040)
Arthropoda is the largest phylum of the animal kingdom. 3 fourths of all the animals in the
world belong to this phylum. Not just in numbers they are unique because of their physical
structure, diversity, habitat, nature etc. They are available all throughout the earth. They
are omnivores, independent or parasitic. Their locomotion, respiration, vascular system,
etc. are also diverse. Arthropods are such resilient members because of their very efficient 5
senses .
Characteristics of Arthropods

1. Their bodies are formed with articulated organs, they are bilaterally symmetrical,
segmented and their bodies are divided into tagmata.
2. Their heads have one or 2 pairs of antennae and usually compound eyes are present.
3. Cuticular exoskeleton present and it is shed at intervals.
4. Reduced coelom in adults. Most of the body cavity is consisting of haemocoel.
5. Their alimentary canals are complete. Different mouth parts are evolved to help in
consumption .
6. Open circulatory system with dorsal, contractile heart and haemocoel.
7. The excretory system is composed of Malpighian tubules. coxa, antenna or maxillary
glands are present in some.
8. They are heterosexual. Fertilization is usually internal, and metamorphosis is present in
most cases.
9. They are terrestrial, aquatic, independent, immobile, symbiotic or parasitic.
Example:
Phylum 8 Echinodermata/Chitinous animal
(Greek echinos= thorn + derma= skin. The Phylum was named by Jacob Klein in 1734. total
number of living species is 7550)

Sea stars are the most renowned animals of the phylum. Besides other members of this
phylum include brittle stars, sea urchin, sea cucumber etc.. Some are round or tubular or
shaped like stars. These animals are triploblastic, contain true coelom and are organ system
grade animals. All members of this species have spiny exoskeleton or skin. Endo skeleton is
formed of dermal calcareous ossicles which form the spines. The spines are the exoskeleton
and the plates are the endo skeleton. Since these species are incapable of osmoregulation so
they are not found in huge numbers in estuaries but they are found in large numbers in the sea
surface and the bottom of the ocean. Echinoderms are independent or symbiotic, but they are
not parasitic.
Characteristics of Echinodermata:

1. Body unsegmented with pentaradial symmetry. Body is rounded, cylindrical or star

shaped. But they are bilaterally symmetrical in larval phase.
2. Body is spiny. Exoskeleton is composed of spines and pedicellariae.
3. Body has oral and aboral end. The oral plate has 5 ambulacral grooves.
4. The body consists of water vascular system. The main locomotive organ is tube feet.
This organ also helps in respiration and. Food consumption.
5. Circulatory system is absent. But haemal acts as circulatory organ.
6. They do not have excretory system.
7. Respiration is done by papulae, tube feet, respiratory tree and bursae.
8. They are heterosexual animals; they have external fertilization and they have free
swimming larval stage in their life cycles.
9. All members are marine..

The Park Water

T → Tube feet
H→haemal
P→ Pediciliary,
Pentaradial
Water→ water
vascular
LARVAL stage of different phylum:

Porifera Amphiblastula/Parenchymula

Cnidaria Plannula/ Ephyra

Platyhelmintes Miracidium,Radia, Sporocyst, Cysticercus

Mollusca Trochophore (Alim SIr)

Annelida Trochophore

Urochordata Tadpole (Alim Sir)

Petromizonidea Amoecit (Alim Sir)

Amphibia Tadpole

Phylum Characteristics

Cnidaria The ost poisonous jellyfish is sea creeper (Chironex fleckeri)

Platyhelminthes Proglottidis is seen

Annelida Segmental Organ present

Chordata Subphylum Urochordata: → they are called tunicates

→ they can use suspension feeders for filtration of foods
Class 2: Thaliaceae: They can emit light due to presence of
luminous appendage

Subphylum: Cephalochordata
→ they are called Spear animals
→ Main excretory organ- Protonephridia
Myxini (Slime eel) : Hagfish means malformed shape
Phylum 9 Chordata
(Latin chrorda=rope + ata= to carry. Bateson first named the phylum in 1885. Total number of
living species is 68626)

The animals which have flexible, dorsal tubular notochord at some phase in their life are called
Chordata. Their nerve chords are tubular, dorsal and hollow. Pharyngeal pouches present at
some stage in the life cycle. Their hearts are located ventrally.
They are the most renowned animals to human beings. Everything from the smallest fish to
human beings is a member of this phylum. They are at the tail end of The series of animal
evolution. Echinodermata and Hemichordata are closely related to this phylum. They have
developed brains, pharyngeal slits, nervous systems etc. The members of this phylum have
spread all over the earth and form a very strong network.

Characteristics of Chordata:

1. Notochord is present at some stage of life. For developed animals

this notochord transforms into vertebral column in later stage of
life. Consequently they are called vertebrates.
2. Single, dorsal, tubular nerve cord is present. For vertebrates, this
nerve cord transforms into brain at the anterior end and spinal
cord at the posterior end.
3. Gill slits are present at some stage in the life cycle. Gill slits are
not present for developed chordates.
4. Their hearts are located ventrally.
5. Vertebrates have 2 pairs of limbs on either side of the body.
6. Post-natal tail, usually projecting beyond the anus at some stage
present may not be present for some adults.
7. Segmentation, if present, is restricted to outer body wall, head
and tail and not extending into coelom.
Difference between Nonchordata and Chordata

1. Notochord non chordates do not have Notochord at any phase of

their lives. Chordates have Notochord at some phase of their life.
2. Nerve cord nerve cord is located ventrally for non-chordate animals
and dorsally for chordate animals.
3. Gill slits even though Nonchordate animals may have gills, they do
not have gill slits.
4. Heart non chordates may not have hearts. Even if heart is present, It
is located dorsally with respect to the alimentary canal. For chordate
animals, heart is located ventrally with respect to the alimentary canal.
5. Hemoglobin for non-cordate animals, hemoglobin is dissolved in the
blood plasma. found in the red blood cells for chordate animals.
 Phylum: CHORDATA

Subphylum-1 Subphylum-2 Subphylum-3

Urochordata Cephalochordata Vertebrata

Class 1: Ascidiaceae
Class 2: Thaliaceae
Class 3 : Larvaceae

Superclass: Cyclostomata Superclass: Gnathostomata

Class 1: Myxini Class 1 : Chondrichthyes

Class 2: Petromizontida Class 2 : Actinopterygii
Class 3 : Sarcopterygii
Class 4 : Amphibia
Class 5 : Reptilia
Class 6 : Aves
Class 7 : Mammalia

All vertebrates are chordates, but all chordates are not vertebrates.
The main features of the phylum Chordata are solid tubular notochord; dorsal, hollow nerve
cord and gill slits in the pharynx. These features are present in chordate animals at some phase
of their life. For the two sub phyla Urochordata and Cephalochordata (that is the
Protochordata) these features are present throughout life. But for vertebrates these features
Mostly present during the embryonic phase. Notochord transforms into a skeleton and
vertebral column. For this reason, they are called vertebrates. Besides this, the nerve cord is
substituted by the brain and spinal cord. Gill slits close and gills or lungs are present. For these
reasons, it can be said that All vertebrates are chordates, but all chordates are not vertebrates
Sub-phylum 1: Urochordata
(Greek aura= tail + chorda= rope)

It consists of 2804 species of animals. They are found in all shallow waters of
oceans all over the earth. Some species project water with the help of their
siphons so they are called sea squirts.
Characteristics
The adult animals do not have notochord but notochord is present in larval stage
The adult animal is sessile and attached to an object under the sea but the larva
are free swimming
They are encased in a semitransparent test or tunic.
They live under the sea. Solitarily or in colony

Urochordata is divided into the following 3 classes. ATL

Class 1 Ascidiacea
They have sac like body. Tunic is thick and semitransparent. Adults do not have
Tails. For example Ascidia mentula, Molgula tubifera
Class 2 Thaliacea
They are lemon shaped. Their body is covered in thin and transparent layer.
Adults do not have tails. For example Salpa maxima, Doliolum rarum etc.
Class 3 Larvacea
They are toad- shaped animals. They have temporary, gelatinous and transparent
body covering. Adult animals have tails. For example Oikopleura albicans,
Appendicularia etc.
Subphylum 2 Cephalochordata

[Greek kephale= head + chorda= rope]

They live in all the coastal areas of the world. All the primitive and simple
characteristics of chordate animals are present in them. The number of living
species of this sub phylum of animals is 33.
Characteristics
Body is elongated dorsoventrally, is transparent and tapering at both ends.
Oral hood is present at the anterior end of the body. Cirri Present in the oral hood
Notochord and nerve cord found along entire length of body and persist
throughout life
There are numerous gill slits in the pharynx. The gills open into the atrium.
‘>’ shaped myotome muscle is present at both ends of the body .

Example Branchiostoma lanceolatum (Amphioxus)

Sub phylum 3 vertebrata

[Latin, vertebrata= spine]
The third subphylum of Chordata is Vertebrata. It is a huge and diverse class of animals. On top
of the primary characteristics of chordate animals, they also have some special characteristics.
Brain is located in bony or cartilaginous skeleton so these animals are called Craniata. Total
number of living species is 65789.

Characteristics of vertebrates :
Notochord transforms into bony or cartilaginous vertebral column.
Nerve cord transforms into brain and spinal cord.
Spinal cord is protected by the vertebral column. Brain is governed by the skull.
5 to 15 pairs of gill slits are found on either end of the pharynx.
Lateral pair of limbs is used for locomotion.
Classification of vertebrate animals
They are divided into 2 major super classes.
1. Agnatha
2. Gnathostomata

Superclass 1 Agnatha:
[a= without + gnathos= jaw]

Agnatha are without true jaws or paired appendages. They have cartilaginous endoskeleton.
This super class is divided into 2 other classes.:

Class one Myxini

[Greek,myxa=slime]

Animals belonging to this class are known as hagfish. They are independent. They live on
annelids, mollusks, crustaceans, Arthropods or dying fish. At present, there are about 76
species of hagfish and all of them are marine. Hag fish look like eels.
Characteristics
Body is slender, eel like, rounded with naked skin containing slime glands. They do not have
dorsal fins.
Mouth is terminal with 4 pairs of tentacles.
5 to 15 pairs of gills with a variable number of gill openings.
The nasal sac opens into the mouth of the hagfish
They don't have any larval phase.

Class 2 Cephalaspidomorphi
[Greek, kephale=head + aspidos= shield+morphe=form]

The animals of this class are known as lamprey. Most of them are parasitic. At present, there
are 43 species of lamprey. Despite their being marine animals, they need to come to fresh
water to lay their eggs. They die very soon after the eggs have been laid. The ammocete larva
that come out of the eggs travel to the sea to restart the life cycle.

Characteristics
Body is slender, eel like rounded with naked skin. They have 1 or 2 dorsal fins.
Sucker like oral disc and tongue with well-developed keratinized teeth are present.
7 pairs of gills are present each with external gill opening.
The nasal sack of the lamprey opens into the mouth.
Super class 2 Gnathostomata
[Greek, gnathos=jaw+stoma=pore]

This class of animals has true jaw and paired appendages. They have bone and cartilage as endo
skeleton. The animals of this superclass are divided into 7 classes
Class 1 Chondrichthyes
[Greek, chondros=cartilage+ichthys=fish]

This is the first class of the super class. At present, there are about 1207 species of fish under
this class. They are primitive but a developed class. They have well defined nervous system,
powerful tail and muscles for swimming and preying on animals. Most of these animals are
marine.
Characteristics
Skin is covered with placoid scales.
Endoskeleton is completely cartilaginous
Respiration is done by means of 5 to 7 pairs of gills on either side of the head.
Caudal fins are heterocercal.
Mouth is ventral and consisting of teeth.

Class 2 Actinopterygii
[Greek, actis=ray+pteris=fin]

Animals of this class are known as ray-finned fishes. This class has 30624 species of fishes. 96
percent of all living fishes belong to this class. They live in fountains, lakes, caves, holes, ice
water, deep sea
Characteristics
The endoskeleton is cartilaginous.
Skin contains mucus glands and is covered with cycloid or ptenoid scales. Sometimes scales are
absent.
Gill slits are present on both ends of the head And they are covered with operculum.
Caudal fins are homocercal
Many species have Swim bladder Which help to float in the water

Class 3 Sarcopterygii
[Greek, sarkas=muscular+pteris=fin]

The fishes of this class are called lobe finned fishes. Scientists believe that The first terrestrial
animals evolved from this class. At present, there are only 8 species of this class. Lung fish
belonging to this class are present in Africa, south America and Australia. On the other hand,
silacanth fishes are present in the Indian ocean and the coastal area around Indonesia.
Characteristics
Their endo skeleton is bony.
Body is covered with ganoid scales
Gill slits are present on either side of the head, which is covered by the operculum.
They have swim bladders with blood capillaries that help in respiration and floatation.
Their tails or caudal fins are diphycercal.

Class 4 Amphibia
[Greek, amphi=both+ bios= life]

They were the first animals to start their journey as 4 legged creatures. So they are called
tetrapod. They are mainly Terrestrial animals but they go to the water to lay their eggs. The
eggs hatch while on water. For this reason, animals of this class are called amphibians. At
Present, there are approximately 7171 living species. Among them, 614 species have tails. And
188 species do not have legs. The rest of the species (6090) are 4 legged amphibians.
Characteristics :
Skin is smooth, moist and glandular. They are ectothermic animals, which means their body
temperature fluctuates with the temperature of the atmosphere. The larval stage is aquatic,
but adults are terrestrial.
They live in damp areas to keep their skin hydrated. The skin also helps in respiration. Their
forelimbs have 5 toes and back limbs have 4 toes.
Respiration is done by gills in the larval stage and lungs, skin and mouth in the adult stage.
Heart has 3 chambers, 2 atria and one ventricle.

Class 5 reptilia.
[Latin repere= crawling movement]

These animals are free from the limitations, which were observed in amphibians which made it
easier for them to conquer the terrestrial regions of the earth. They have overcome many
obstacles like problems in fertilization of egg due to dryness, not being able to hold water,
scaling the land surface, food consumption etc. and spread all over the world. At present, there
are about 9831 species of reptiles in the world.
Characteristics
Body covered with keratinized, epidermal scales and sometimes bony dermal plates.
2 pairs of limbs with 5 toes.
Incomplete 4 chambered heart because of incomplete division of the ventricle. Exception to
this is crocodiles which have complete 4 chambers in their hearts. Lungs are the respiratory
organ.
Their eggs are covered by skin like or lime-covered shells.
They don't have any larval stage.

Class 6 Aves
[Latin avis=bird]

Besides the aquatic or terrestrial animals, the vertebrates, which are capable of flight, are
known as aves or birds. Their origin, evolution and Diversity calls for elaborate discussion. They
prevail in the sky, in land or in the waters of the earth. All ecological environments have birds in
them. Some birds even migrate to distant lands in cold weather. At present, there are more
than 10000 species of birds in the world. The key to evolution for a bird is Reducing its body
weight And Making it capable of flight.
Characteristics
Body is covered in feathers and they are s shaped or spindle shaped
Forelimbs are modified as wings for flight.
Each jaw is covered with a keratinized sheath forming a beak. No teeth are present.
Bones are pneumatic and light weight. Many bones have fused together.
Air sacs are touched with the lungs. Even the bones contain air cavities.
They have highly effective digestive systems.
Hearts have 4 chambers, 2 atria and 2 ventricles.
They are the first warm blooded animals.
Class 7 Mammalia.
[Latin mamma=breast]

Mammals are seen as the most highly developed animals of the animal kingdom. Starting from
1.5 gram bats 130 metric tons of blue whales mammals are very diverse in their shape, size and
physical structure. On top of their physical structure, they are also the most intelligent and have
the fastest reaction of among most animals. At present, there are about 6000 mammals in the
world. Humans belong to this class.
Characteristics
Body is covered with glands (sebaceous and sweat glands) and fur.
Young are nourished by milk from mammary gland.
Middle ear has 3 ossicles and external year has pinna.
Jaw contains different types of teeth.
Muscular diaphragm for air exchange separates thoracic and abdominal cavities.
Mature red blood cells do not contain nucleus.
Heart is composed of 4 chambers and they are endothermic animals.
They can be both terrestrial and aquatic. Some are even capable of flight (bats).