Enterocoely

Definition

Enterocoely is the process by which the coelom (body cavity) forms in certain animals. It involves the budding of mesodermal pouches from the archenteron during embryonic development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Enterocoely occurs in deuterostomes, which include phyla such as Echinodermata and Chordata.
2. The mesoderm forms from outpocketings of the primitive gut, or archenteron.
3. This process contrasts with schizocoely, where the coelom forms by splitting of mesodermal masses.
4. Enterocoely results in a true coelom that fully surrounds internal organs and provides structural support.
5. It is a key characteristic used to differentiate between different animal groups during classification.

Review Questions

Related terms

Deuterostomes:

Animals in which the anus develops before the mouth during embryonic development.

Schizocoely: The process where the coelom forms by splitting mesodermal masses; seen in protostomes.

Coelom:

A fluid-filled body cavity completely lined by tissue derived from mesoderm.