Asymmetrical
Definition
Asymmetrical organisms lack symmetry, meaning they do not have a balanced arrangement of body parts. This is in contrast to symmetrical organisms that can be divided into mirror-image halves.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Asymmetry is often found in simpler organisms, such as sponges.
- Asymmetrical animals do not have a definite shape or form.
- Asymmetry can be an adaptation to specific environmental conditions.
- Most asymmetrical animals are sessile, meaning they are fixed in one place.
- Unlike bilaterally or radially symmetrical animals, asymmetrical animals lack organized tissues and organs.
Review Questions
- What type of symmetry do sponges typically exhibit?
- How does the body structure of asymmetrical animals differ from those with bilateral or radial symmetry?
- Why might an organism develop an asymmetrical body plan?
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Related terms
BilateralSymmetry: Bilateral symmetry refers to organisms with left and right halves that are mirror images.
RadialSymmetry: Radial symmetry describes organisms that can be divided into similar halves by multiple planes passing through the central axis.
Sessile: Sessile refers to organisms that are fixed in one place and do not move.
