The body part that is a characteristic of echinoderms like starfish and sea urchins is:
C. Tube Feet
1. Explanation: Echinoderms, such as starfish and sea urchins, have tube feet as a unique characteristic. These tube feet are small, fluid-filled projections located on the underside of the echinoderm's body. They help in movement, feeding, and attachment to surfaces.
2. Function: The tube feet in echinoderms serve multiple purposes. They assist in locomotion by creating suction and releasing it to move the organism along surfaces. They also aid in capturing prey and bringing food towards the mouth. Additionally, tube feet help echinoderms adhere to substrates in their environment.
3. Example: For example, in a starfish, tube feet extend from the grooves on the underside of each arm. By contracting and expanding these tube feet through hydraulic pressure, a starfish can slowly crawl or cling onto rocks or other surfaces in the ocean.
In summary, tube feet are a significant body part found in echinoderms like starfish and sea urchins, playing essential roles in their movement, feeding, and attachment processes.
