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Spiral cleavage

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General Biology I

Definition

Spiral cleavage is a form of embryonic development in which cells divide at oblique angles, creating a spiral pattern. It is characteristic of certain groups of invertebrates, including mollusks and annelids.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Spiral cleavage is observed in protostomes.
  2. The orientation of cell division during spiral cleavage results in cells that are offset from each other.
  3. It typically occurs during the early stages of embryogenesis.
  4. Spiral cleavage leads to determinate development, meaning the fate of each cell is predetermined.
  5. Mollusks, annelids, and some other invertebrates exhibit spiral cleavage.

Review Questions

  • What type of animals typically exhibit spiral cleavage?
  • How does cell division occur during spiral cleavage?
  • What is the developmental significance of determinate development associated with spiral cleavage?

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