Which of these characteristics does not apply to cnidarians?a. are diploblasticb. possess a gastrovascular cavity with one openingc. undergo metamorphosisd. have a central nervous system

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the characteristics of cnidarians: Cnidarians, including jellyfish, corals, and sea anemones, are known for certain key characteristics.
2. Understand the term 'diploblastic': This term refers to organisms that develop from two embryonic layers - ectoderm and endoderm. Cnidarians are diploblastic.
3. Review the gastrovascular cavity function: Cnidarians have a gastrovascular cavity that serves both digestive and circulatory functions, and it typically has only one opening that acts as both mouth and anus.
4. Examine the concept of metamorphosis in cnidarians: Many cnidarians undergo metamorphosis during their life cycle, transitioning from larval to adult forms.
5. Analyze the nervous system structure: Cnidarians possess a nerve net, which is a simple type of nervous system, but they do not have a centralized nervous system as seen in more complex animals.

Key Concepts

Cnidarian Characteristics

Cnidarians are a group of animals that include jellyfish, corals, and sea anemones. They are characterized by their radial symmetry, presence of specialized cells called cnidocytes for capturing prey, and a body plan that includes a gastrovascular cavity with a single opening serving as both mouth and anus.

Diploblastic Organization

Diploblastic organisms, like cnidarians, have two primary germ layers: the ectoderm and the endoderm. This contrasts with triploblastic organisms, which have a third layer called mesoderm. The diploblastic structure contributes to the simpler body organization and functions of cnidarians.

Metamorphosis in Animals

Metamorphosis is a biological process involving significant physical changes in an organism's form during its life cycle, commonly seen in insects and amphibians. Cnidarians do not undergo metamorphosis; instead, they typically have a life cycle that includes polyp and medusa stages, but these do not involve the drastic transformations characteristic of metamorphosis.