Skeletons

Most organisms have some sort of a support or skeletal system. This is even true for plants that use lignin and cellulose in their cell walls for support. Basically there are three types of skeletons in animals. Internal skeletons are characteristic of organisms where the body tissues are draped over the "outside" of the skeleton. Internal skeletons, such as bones, are typically made up of calcium phosphate, a very durable and strong compound. External skeletons are characteristic of organisms where the tissues are found within the skeleton. These external skeletons can be made up of various materials such as chitin and calcium carbonate.

• Name five examples of organisms that have an internal skeleton.
• Name five examples of organisms that have an external skeleton.
• Is the skeleton of a squid internal or external?
• What effect does water have on the skeleton of a whale?
• What is the difference between chitin and chiton?

The third type of skeleton is the hydrostatic skeleton. This type of skeleton uses fluids for support and activity.

• What properties of water make it an ideal skeleton?
• Name five examples of animals that use hydrostatic skeletons or hydrostatic pressure in their daily activities.
• How does an earthworm use a hydrostatic skeleton?
• How do arthropods use a hydrostatic skeleton?
• How does a clam use a hydrostatic skeleton?
• How does a starfish use a hydrostatic skeleton?
• How does a nematode use a hydrostatic skeleton?

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