Asymmetrical
Definition
Asymmetrical describes an organism or structure that lacks symmetry, meaning it cannot be divided into mirror-image halves along any plane. This term is commonly used to describe certain animals and body parts that do not exhibit regular patterns or balanced proportions.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Many sponges (Porifera) are examples of asymmetrical animals.
- Asymmetry can occur at various scales, from entire organisms to specific organs or structures within an organism.
- Unlike radial and bilateral symmetry, asymmetry does not allow for equal division along any central axis.
- Asymmetrical organisms can still have specialized functions and complex body plans despite their lack of symmetry.
- Developmental processes and environmental factors often contribute to the asymmetrical form in certain species.
Review Questions
- What type of symmetry characterizes most sponges?
- Can you name two factors that can influence the development of asymmetry in animals?
- How does asymmetry differ from bilateral and radial symmetry?
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Related terms
BilateralSymmetry: A type of symmetry where an organism can be divided into mirror-image halves along a single plane.
RadialSymmetry: A type of symmetry where an organism can be divided into similar halves by multiple planes passing through a central axis.
Porifera: A phylum of simple, primarily marine animals known as sponges, many of which exhibit asymmetry.
