The Protective and Support

System of Animals
bio3
THE PROTECTIVE AND
SUPPORT SYSTEMS OF
ANIMALS

• Main functions: to provide support, protection

and enable movement of different skeletal forms
Hydrostatic Skeleton
• exhibited by mollusks and nematodes/ worms

• pressurized fluid in compartments and by using

the muscles surrounding these compartments,
the animal changes shape and produces
movement (peristaltic movement - squeezing
other segments while allowing others to relax)
Hydrostatic Skeleton
Exoskeleton
• skeletons which encases the organisms
body
• exhibited by insects, crustaceans and
spiders
• composed of CHITIN (light, strong for
protection and reduction of water loss);
• can be calcified for further strengthening
Exoskeleton
Endoskeleton
• found within the body of the animal
• vertebrates (bones) and echinoderms
(ossicles) – calcium rich
• 2 sections: axial skeleton and
appendicular skeleton
Endoskeleton
Muscle Actions
• Depressor – depresses the lower jaw (opens the
mouth)
• Levator – elevates the lower jaw (closes the
mouth)
• Adductor – pulls the limb towards the body mass
• Abductor – pulls the limb away from the body
mass
• Flexor – folds the limb (decrease the angle)
• Extensor – extends the limb (increase the angle)