Schizocoelom

Definition

Schizocoelom is a type of body cavity formed by the splitting of mesodermal masses. It is characteristic of many protostomes, including certain members of the Superphylum Lophotrochozoa.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Schizocoelom formation involves the splitting of mesodermal tissue during embryonic development.
2. This type of coelom is commonly found in annelids, mollusks, and some other lophotrochozoans.
3. It contrasts with enterocoely, another method of coelom formation seen in deuterostomes.
4. The schizocoelom provides space for internal organs and allows for greater complexity in organ development and function.
5. The presence of a schizocoelom is one key feature that distinguishes certain groups within the Superphylum Lophotrochozoa.

Review Questions

Related terms

Protostome:

An organism whose embryonic development features the mouth forming before the anus.

Mesoderm: The middle layer of cells or tissues in an embryo that gives rise to muscles, bones, and other structures.

Enterocoely:

A process of coelom formation where the coelom forms by outpocketing from the gut in deuterostomes.