Question Detail
Question
Consider the following characteristics of coelomates: 1. Radial symmetry 2. Asymmetry 3. Origin of mouth 4. Embryonic cleavage pattern 5. Coelom formation If basic differences are to be found between protostome coelomates and deuterostome coelomates, consideration of which of the above characteristics will suffice?
Correct Answer
Option D is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
The fundamental differences between protostomes and deuterostomes include: (3) the origin of the mouth (from blastopore in protostomes, anus in deuterostomes), (4) embryonic cleavage pattern (spiral and determinate in protostomes, radial and indeterminate in deuterostomes), and (5) coelom formation (schizocoely in protostomes, enterocoely in deuterostomes). Symmetry (1) and asymmetry (2) are not defining differences, as both groups are primarily bilaterally symmetrical.
Hint
Focus on the embryonic developmental features that distinguish these two major lineages of bilaterians.