Question

A disadvantage of an exoskeleton is that it a. cannot protect an animal's internal organs. b. must be periodically shed, leaving the animal in a vulnerable state. c. does not provide any flexibility for the ease of movement of an animal. d. is a soft, easily damaged structure. cannot protect the outside of the body surface.

Name: Problem 1, Chapter 44: Biology
Uploaded: 2021-06-28T14:27:59-08:00
Duration: 1 min 39 s
Channel: Christina Sorrentino
Description: A disadvantage of an exoskeleton is that it a. cannot protect an animal's internal organs. b. must be periodically shed, leaving the animal in a vulnerable state. c. does not provide any flexibility for the ease of movement of an animal. d. is a soft, easily damaged structure. cannot protect the outside of the body surface.

   A disadvantage of an exoskeleton is that it
a. cannot protect an animal's internal organs.
b. must be periodically shed, leaving the animal in a vulnerable state.
c. does not provide any flexibility for the ease of movement of an animal.
d. is a soft, easily damaged structure.
cannot protect the outside of the body surface.

Biology

Eric P. Widmaier;… 4th Edition

Chapter 44, Problem 1

Instant Answer

Solved by Expert Christina Sorrentino

06/28/2021

Step 1

An exoskeleton is an external skeleton that supports and protects an animal's body, in contrast to the internal skeleton (endoskeleton) that humans have. Some larger types of exoskeletons are known as shells. Animals with exoskeletons include insects like Show more…

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A disadvantage of an exoskeleton is that it a. cannot protect an animal's internal organs. b. must be periodically shed, leaving the animal in a vulnerable state. c. does not provide any flexibility for the ease of movement of an animal. d. is a soft, easily damaged structure. cannot protect the outside of the body surface.

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Key Concepts

Exoskeleton

An exoskeleton is an external supportive and protective structure found in many invertebrates. It provides a rigid framework for muscle attachment, protects internal organs, and helps maintain the body shape. However, its rigid nature can also limit flexibility and rapid growth, because it does not expand as the animal grows, making other adaptations like periodic shedding necessary.

Molting (Ecdysis)

Molting, or ecdysis, is the process by which animals with exoskeletons periodically shed their old, rigid exterior to allow for growth and repair. During this vulnerable phase, the animal temporarily loses the full protective benefits of its exoskeleton, making it susceptible to predation and environmental hazards until a new, fully-formed exoskeleton hardens.

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