Chapter 31, Problem S1.2BYB

Summary Introduction

To analyze:

What is the basis for classifying an organism as a member of kingdom Animalia?

Introduction:

The organisms on Earth were classified into five kingdoms - Prokaryote, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia. These organisms were classified on the basis of structure, mode, the source of nutrition, and body design.

Explanation of Solution

Living organisms are classified into five kingdoms- Prokaryote, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia. Animalia is also termed as Metazoa.

The general characteristics of Animalia kingdom are

- It should be a eukaryote

- It should be a heterotroph

- It should be multicellular having nucleus, mitochondria, Golgi complex, ribosomes, lysosomes, vacuoles, cytoskeleton.

- It should contain a muscular system, skeletal system, circulatory system, excretory system, and reproductive system, to perform various functions required for survival.

- It should be able to ingest food and digest it inside the cavity.

- It should be able to move independently.

- It should contain organs necessary for the gaseous exchange of gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide necessary for survival.

Conclusion

The kingdom Animalia is characterized by eukaryotic and heterotrophic organisms. It is multicellular and has cell walls. They depend on plants directly for their food. Food is ingested and digested in the food cavity. The organisms are capable of locomotion.