 8527521718 Online Support

 NEETprep Helpline

Signup | Login

Courses
Full Course
Full Course (English)
Target 2025
Bio Masterclass
All Courses
Course Content
Videos
NCERT Ebooks
Questions
Flashcards
Tests
Chapter DPPs
Custom Test
Chapter Journey
Mindmap
PYQ Marked NCERT
Bridge (X->XI)
Schedule New
Leaderboard

Signup | Login

Courses
Course Content
Schedule New
Leaderboard

Signup | Login

NCERT Ebook - Animal Kingdom

1. Basis of Classification
2. Classification of Animals

4.2 Classification of Animals


When you look around, you will observe different animals with different structures and forms. As over a million species of animals
have been described till now, the need for classification becomes all the more important. The classification also helps in assigning a
systematic position to newly described species.

4.1 Basis of Classification

Inspite of differences in structure and form of different animals, there are fundamental features common to various individuals in
relation to the arrangement of cells, body symmetry, nature of coelom, patterns of digestive, circulatory or reproductive systems. These
features are used as the basis of animal classification and some of them are discussed here.

4.1.1 Levels of Organisation

Though all members of Animalia are multicellular, all of them do not exhibit the same pattern of organisation of cells. For example, in
sponges, the cells are arranged as loose cell aggregates, i.e., they exhibit cellular level of organisation. Some division of labour
(activities) occur among the cells. In coelenterates, the arrangement of cells is more complex. Here the cells performing the same
function are arranged into tissues, hence is called tissue level of organisation. A still higher level of organisation, i.e., organ level is
exhibited by members of Platyhelminthes and other higher phyla where tissues are grouped together to form organs, each specialised
for a particular function. In animals like Annelids, Arthropods, Molluscs, Echinoderms and Chordates, organs have associated to form
functional systems, each system concerned with a specific physiological function. This pattern is called organ system level of
organisation. Organ systems in different groups of animals exhibit various patterns of complexities. For example, the digestive system
in Platyhelminthes has only a single opening to the outside of the body that serves as both mouth and anus, and is hence called
incomplete. A complete digestive system has two openings, mouth and anus. Similarly, the circulatory system may be of two types:

Figure 4.1 (a) Radial symmetry

(i) open type in which the blood is pumped out of the heart and the cells and tissues are directly bathed in it and

Figure 4.1 (b) Bilateral symmetry

(ii) closed type in which the blood is circulated through a series of vessels of varying diameters (arteries, veins and capillaries).


4.1.2 Symmetry
Animals can be categorised on the basis of their symmetry. Sponges are mostly asymmetrical, i.e., any plane that passes through the
centre does not divide them into equal halves. When any plane passing through the central axis of the body divides the organism into
two identical halves, it is called radial symmetry. Coelenterates, ctenophores and echinoderms have this kind of body plan (Figure
4.1a). Animals like annelids, arthropods, etc., where the body can be divided into identical left and right halves in only one plane,
exhibit bilateral symmetry (Figure 4.1b).
 Figure 4.2 Showing germinal layers :(a) Diploblastic (b) Triploblastic

4.1.1 Levels of Organisation

Though all members of Animalia are multicellular, all of them do not exhibit the same pattern of organisation of cells. For example, in
sponges, the cells are arranged as loose cell aggregates, i.e., they exhibit cellular level of organisation. Some division of labour
(activities) occur among the cells. In coelenterates, the arrangement of cells is more complex. Here the cells performing the same
function are arranged into tissues, hence is called tissue level of organisation. A still higher level of organisation, i.e., organ level is
exhibited by members of Platyhelminthes and other higher phyla where tissues are grouped together to form organs, each specialised
for a particular function. In animals like Annelids, Arthropods, Molluscs, Echinoderms and Chordates, organs have associated to form
functional systems, each system concerned with a specific physiological function. This pattern is called organ system level of
organisation. Organ systems in different groups of animals exhibit various patterns of complexities. For example, the digestive system
in Platyhelminthes has only a single opening to the outside of the body that serves as both mouth and anus, and is hence called
incomplete. A complete digestive system has two openings, mouth and anus. Similarly, the circulatory system may be of two types:

Figure 4.1 (a) Radial symmetry

(i) open type in which the blood is pumped out of the heart and the cells and tissues are directly bathed in it and


 Figure 4.1 (b) Bilateral symmetry

(ii) closed type in which the blood is circulated through a series of vessels of varying diameters (arteries, veins and capillaries).

4.1.2 Symmetry

Animals can be categorised on the basis of their symmetry. Sponges are mostly asymmetrical, i.e., any plane that passes through the
centre does not divide them into equal halves. When any plane passing through the central axis of the body divides the organism into
two identical halves, it is called radial symmetry. Coelenterates, ctenophores and echinoderms have this kind of body plan (Figure
4.1a). Animals like annelids, arthropods, etc., where the body can be divided into identical left and right halves in only one plane,
exhibit bilateral symmetry (Figure 4.1b).

Figure 4.2 Showing germinal layers :(a) Diploblastic (b) Triploblastic

4.1.3 Diploblastic and Triploblastic Organisation

Animals in which the cells are arranged in two embryonic layers, an external ectoderm and an internal endoderm, are called diploblastic
animals, e.g., coelenterates. An undifferentiated layer, mesoglea, is present in between the ectoderm and the endoderm (Figure 4.2a).
Those animals in which the developing embryo has a third germinal layer, mesoderm, in between the ectoderm and endoderm, are called
triploblastic animals (platyhelminthes to chordates, Figure 4.2b).


 Figure 4.3 Diagrammatic sectional view of : (a) Coelomate (b) Pseudocoelomate (c) Acoelomate

4.1.4 Coelom

Presence or absence of a cavity between the body wall and the gut wall is very important in classification. The body cavity, which is
lined by mesoderm is called coelom. Animals possessing coelom are called coelomates, e.g., annelids, molluscs, arthropods,
echinoderms, hemichordates and chordates (Figure 4.3a). In some animals, the body cavity is not lined by mesoderm, instead, the
mesoderm is present as scattered pouches in between the ectoderm and endoderm. Such a body cavity is called pseudocoelom and the
animals possessing them are called pseudocoelomates, e.g., aschelminthes (Figure 4.3b). The animals in which the body cavity is absent
are called acoelomates, e.g., platyhelminthes (Figure 4.3c).

4.1.5 Segmentation
In some animals, the body is externally and internally divided into segments with a serial repetition of at least some organs. For
example, in earthworm, the body shows this pattern called metameric segmentation and the phenomenon is known as metamerism.

4.1.6 Notochord
Notochord is a mesodermally derived rod-like structure formed on the dorsal side during embryonic development in some animals.
Animals with notochord are called chordates and those animals which do not form this structure are called non-chordates, e.g.,
porifera to echinoderms.

4.2 Classification of Animals

The broad classification of Animalia based on common fundamental features as mentioned in the preceding sections is given in Figure
4.4. 
 *Echinodermata exhibits radial or bilateral symmetry depending on the stage.

Figure 4.4 Broad classification of Kingdom Animalia based on common fundamental features

The important characteristic features of the different phyla are described.

4.2.1 Phylum – Porifera

Members of this phylum are commonly known as sponges. They are generally marine and mostly asymmetrical animals (Figure 4.5).
These are primitive multicellular animals and have cellular level of organisation. Sponges have a water transport or canal system.
Water enters through minute pores (ostia) in the body wall into a central cavity, spongocoel, from where it goes out through the
osculum. This pathway of water transport is helpful in food gathering, respiratory exchange and removal of waste. Choanocytes or
collar cells line the spongocoel and the canals. Digestion is intracellular.


Figure 4.5 Examples of Porifera : (a) Sycon (b) Euspongia (c) Spongilla

The body is supported by a skeleton made up of spicules or spongin fibres. Sexes are not separate (hermaphrodite), i.e., eggs and
sperms are produced by the same individual. Sponges reproduce asexually by fragmentation and sexually by formation of gametes.
Fertilisation is internal and development is indirect having a larval stage which is morphologically distinct from the adult.

Examples: Sycon (Scypha), Spongilla (Fresh water sponge) and Euspongia (Bath sponge).
4.2.2 Phylum – Coelenterata (Cnidaria)
They are aquatic, mostly marine, sessile or free-swimming, radially symmetrical animals (Figure 4.6). The name cnidaria is derived from
the cnidoblasts or cnidocytes (which contain the stinging capsules or nematocysts) present on the tentacles and the body.

(a)

(b)
Figure 4.6 Examples of Coelenterata indicating outline of their body form : (a) Aurelia (Medusa) (b)Adamsia (Polyp)

Cnidoblasts are used for anchorage, defense and for the capture of prey (Figure 4.7). Cnidarians exhibit tissue level of organisation
and are diploblastic. They have a central gastro-vascular cavity with a single opening, mouth on hypostome. Digestion is extracellular
and intracellular. Some of the cnidarians, e.g., corals have a skeleton composed of calcium carbonate. Cnidarians exhibit two basic
body forms called polyp and medusa (Figure 4.6). The former is a sessile and cylindrical form like Hydra, Adamsia, etc. whereas, the
latter is umbrella-shaped and free-swimming like Aurelia or jelly fish. Those cnidarians which exist in both forms exhibit alternation of
generation (Metagenesis), i.e., polyps produce medusae asexually and medusae form the polyps sexually (e.g., Obelia).

Figure 4.7 Diagrammatic view of Cnidoblast

Examples: Physalia (Portuguese man-of-war), Adamsia (Sea anemone), Pennatula (Sea-pen), Gorgonia (Sea-fan) and Meandrina (Brain
coral).

4.2.3 Phylum – Ctenophora

Ctenophores, commonly known as sea walnuts or comb jellies are exclusively marine, radially symmetrical, diploblastic organisms with
tissue level of organisation. The body bears eight external rows of ciliated comb plates, which help in locomotion (Figure 4.8).
Digestion is both extracellular and intracellular. Bioluminescence (the property of a living organism to emit light) is well-marked in
ctenophores. Sexes are not separate. Reproduction takes place only by sexual means. Fertilisation is external with indirect development.

Examples: Pleurobrachia and Ctenoplana.

Figure 4.8 Example of Ctenophora (Pleurobrachia)

4.2.4 Phylum – Platyhelminthes

They have dorso-ventrally flattened body, hence are called flatworms (Figure 4.9). These are mostly endoparasites found in animals
including human beings. Flatworms are bilaterally symmetrical, triploblastic and acoelomate animals with organ level of organisation.
Hooks and suckers are present in the parasitic forms. Some of them absorb nutrients from the host directly through their body surface.
Specialised cells called flame cells help in osmoregulation and excretion. Sexes are not separate. Fertilisation is internal and
development is through many larval stages. Some members like Planaria possess high regeneration capacity.

Examples: Taenia (Tapeworm), Fasciola (Liver fluke).

(a)
 (b)
Figure 4.9 Examples of Platyhelminthes : (a) Tape worm (b) Liver fluke

4.2.5 Phylum – Aschelminthes

The body of the aschelminthes is circular in cross-section, hence, the name roundworms (Figure 4.10). They may be freeliving, aquatic
and terrestrial or parasitic in plants and animals. Roundworms have organ-system level of body organisation. They are bilaterally
symmetrical, triploblastic and pseudocoelomate animals.

Male Female

Figure 4.10 Example of Aschelminthes: Roundworm

Alimentary canal is complete with a well-developed muscular pharynx. An excretory tube removes body wastes from the body cavity
through the excretory pore. Sexes are separate (dioecious), i.e., males and females are distinct. Often females are longer than males.
Fertilisation is internal and development may be direct (the young ones resemble the adult) or indirect.

Examples : Ascaris (Roundworm), Wuchereria (Filaria worm), Ancylostoma (Hookworm).



4.2.6 Phylum – Annelida

They may be aquatic (marine and fresh water) or terrestrial; free-living, and sometimes parasitic. They exhibit organ-system level of
body organisation and bilateral symmetry. They are triploblastic, metamerically segmented and coelomate animals. Their body surface
is distinctly marked out into segments or metameres and, hence, the phylum name Annelida (Latin, annulus : little ring) (Figure 4.11).
They possess longitudinal and circular muscles which help in locomotion. Aquatic annelids like Nereis possess lateral appendages,
parapodia, which help in swimming. A closed circulatory system is present.

(a)


(b)

Figure 4.11 Examples of Annelida : (a) Nereis (b) Hirudinaria

Nephridia (sing. nephridium) help in osmoregulation and excretion. Neural system consists of paired ganglia (sing. ganglion) connected
by lateral nerves to a double ventral nerve cord. Nereis, an aquatic form, is dioecious, but earthworms and leeches are monoecious.
Reproduction is sexual.

Examples : Nereis, Pheretima (Earthworm) and Hirudinaria (Blood sucking leech).

4.2.7 Phylum – Arthropoda

This is the largest phylum of Animalia which includes insects. Over two-thirds of all named species on earth are arthropods (Figure
4.12). They have organ-system level of organisation. They are bilaterally symmetrical, triploblastic, segmented and coelomate animals.

Figure 4.12 Examples of Arthropoda : (a) Locust (b) Butterfly (c) Scorpion (d) Prawn

The body of arthropods is covered by chitinous exoskeleton. The body consists of head, thorax and abdomen. They have jointed
appendages (arthros-joint, poda-appendages). Respiratory organs are gills, book gills, book lungs or tracheal system. Circulatory
system is of open type. Sensory organs like antennae, eyes (compound and simple), statocysts or balancing organs are present.
Excretion takes place through malpighian tubules. They are mostly dioecious. Fertilisation is usually internal. They are mostly
oviparous. Development may be direct or indirect.

Examples: Economically important insects – Apis (Honey bee), Bombyx (Silkworm), Laccifer (Lac insect)

Vectors – Anopheles, Culex and Aedes (Mosquitoes)

Gregarious pest – Locusta (Locust)

Living fossil – Limulus (King crab).

4.2.8 Phylum – Mollusca

This is the second largest animal phylum (Figure 4.13). Molluscs are terrestrial or aquatic (marine or fresh water) having an organ-
system level of organisation. They are bilaterally symmetrical, triploblastic and coelomate animals. 
 (a)

(b)

Figure 4.13 Examples of Mollusca :(a) Pila (b) Octopus

Body is covered by a calcareous shell and is unsegmented with a distinct head, muscular foot and visceral hump. A soft and spongy
layer of skin forms a mantle over the visceral hump. The space between the hump and the mantle is called the mantle cavity in which
feather like gills are present. They have respiratory and excretory functions. The anterior head region has sensory tentacles. The mouth
contains a file-like rasping organ for feeding, called radula.

They are usually dioecious and oviparous with indirect development.

Examples: Pila (Apple snail), Pinctada (Pearl oyster), Sepia (Cuttlefish), Loligo (Squid), Octopus (Devil fish), Aplysia (Sea-hare),
Dentalium (Tusk shell) and Chaetopleura (Chiton).

4.2.9 Phylum – Echinodermata

These animals have an endoskeleton of calcareous ossicles and, hence, the name Echinodermata (Spiny bodied, Figure 4.14). All are
marine with organ-system level of organisation. The adult echinoderms are radially symmetrical but larvae are bilaterally symmetrical.

(a)

 (b)

Figure 4.14 Examples of Echinodermata : (a) Asterias (b) Ophiura

They are triploblastic and coelomate animals. Digestive system is complete with mouth on the lower (ventral) side and anus on the
upper (dorsal) side. The most distinctive feature of echinoderms is the presence of water vascular system which helps in locomotion,
capture and transport of food and respiration. An excretory system is absent. Sexes are separate. Reproduction is sexual. Fertilisation
is usually external. Development is indirect with free-swimming larva.

Examples: Asterias (Star fish), Echinus (Sea urchin), Antedon (Sea lily), Cucumaria (Sea cucumber) and Ophiura (Brittle star).

4.2.10 Phylum – Hemichordata

Hemichordata was earlier considered as a sub-phylum under phylum Chordata. But now it is placed as a separate phylum under non-
chordata. Hemichordates have a rudimentary structure in the collar region called stomochord, a structure similar to notochord.

Figure 4.15 Balanoglossus

This phylum consists of a small group of worm-like marine animals with organ-system level of organisation. They are bilaterally
symmetrical, triploblastic and coelomate animals. The body is cylindrical and is composed of an anterior proboscis, a collar and a long
trunk (Figure 4.15). Circulatory system is of open type. Respiration takes place through gills. Excretory organ is proboscis gland. Sexes
are separate. Fertilisation is external. Development is indirect.

Examples: Balanoglossus and Saccoglossus.

4.2.11 Phylum – Chordata

Animals belonging to phylum Chordata are fundamentally characterised by the presence of a notochord, a dorsal hollow nerve cord
and paired pharyngeal gill slits (Figure 4.16). These are bilaterally symmetrical, triploblastic, coelomate with organ-system level of
organisation. They possess a post anal tail and a closed circulatory system.

Figure 4.16 Chordata characteristics

Table 4.1 presents a comparison of salient features of chordates and non-chordates.

Table 4.1 Comparison of Chordates and Non-chordates

Phylum Chordata is divided into three subphyla: Urochordata or Tunicata, Cephalochordata and Vertebrata.

Figure 4.17 Ascidia

Subphyla Urochordata and Cephalochordata are often referred to as protochordates (Figure 4.17) and are exclusively marine. In
Urochordata, notochord is present only in larval tail, while in Cephalochordata, it extends from head to tail region and is persistent
throughout their life.

Examples: Urochordata – Ascidia, Salpa, Doliolum; Cephalochordata – Branchiostoma (Amphioxus or Lancelet).

The members of subphylum Vertebrata possess notochord during the embryonic period. The notochord is replaced by a cartilaginous or

bony vertebral column in the adult. Thus all vertebrates are chordates but all chordates are not vertebrates. Besides the basic chordate
characters, vertebrates have a ventral muscular heart with two, three or four chambers, kidneys for excretion and osmoregulation and
paired appendages which may be fins or limbs.

The subphylum Vertebrata is further divided as follows:

4.2.11.1 Class – Cyclostomata

All living members of the class Cyclostomata are ectoparasites on some fishes. They have an elongated body bearing 6-15 pairs of gill
slits for respiration. Cyclostomes have a sucking and circular mouth without jaws (Fig. 4.18). Their body is devoid of scales and paired
fins. Cranium and vertebral column are cartilaginous. Circulation is of closed type. Cyclostomes are marine but migrate for spawning to
fresh water. After spawning, within a few days, they die. Their larvae, after metamorphosis, return to the ocean.

Examples: Petromyzon (Lamprey) and Myxine (Hagfish).

Figure 4.18 A jawless vertebrate - Petromyzon

(a)

(b)

Figure 4.19 Example of Cartilaginous fishes : (a) Scoliodon (b) Pristis

4.2.11.2 Class – Chondrichthyes

They are marine animals with streamlined body and have cartilaginous endoskeleton
(Figure 4.19). Mouth is located ventrally. Notochord is persistent throughout life. Gill slits are separate and without operculum (gill
cover). The skin is tough, containing minute placoid scales. Teeth are modified placoid scales which are backwardly directed. Their
jaws are very powerful. These animals are predaceous. Due to the absence of air bladder, they have to swim constantly to avoid
sinking. Heart is two-chambered (one auricle and one ventricle). Some of them have electric organs (e.g., Torpedo) and some possess
poison sting (e.g., Trygon). They are cold-blooded (poikilothermous) animals, i.e., they lack the capacity to regulate their body
temperature. Sexes are separate. In males pelvic fins bear claspers. They have internal fertilisation and many of them are viviparous.

Examples: Scoliodon (Dog fish), Pristis (Saw fish), Carcharodon (Great white shark), Trygon (Sting ray).

(a)

(b)
Figure 4.20 Examples of Bony fishes : (a) Hippocampus (b) Catla

4.2.11.3 Class – Osteichthyes

It includes both marine and fresh water fishes with bony endoskeleton. Their body is streamlined. Mouth is mostly terminal (Figure
4.20). They have four pairs of gills which are covered by an operculum on each side. Skin is covered with cycloid/ctenoid scales. Air
bladder is present which regulates buoyancy. Heart is two-chambered (one auricle and one ventricle). They are cold-blooded animals.
Sexes are separate. Fertilisation is usually external. They are mostly oviparous and development is direct.

Examples: Marine – Exocoetus (Flying fish), Hippocampus (Sea horse); Freshwater – Labeo (Rohu), Catla (Katla), Clarias (Magur);
Aquarium – Betta (Fighting fish), Pterophyllum (Angel fish).

4.2.11.4 Class – Amphibia

As the name indicates (Gr., Amphi : dual, bios, life), amphibians can live in aquatic as well as terrestrial habitats (Figure 4.21). Most of
them have two pairs of limbs. Body is divisible into head and trunk. Tail may be present in some.

(a)

(b)

Figure 4.21 Examples of Amphibia :(a) Salamandra (b) Rana

The amphibian skin is moist (without scales). The eyes have eyelids. A tympanum represents the ear. Alimentary canal, urinary and
reproductive tracts open into a common chamber called cloaca which opens to the exterior. Respiration is by gills, lungs and through
skin. The heart is three-chambered (two auricles and one ventricle). These are cold-blooded animals. Sexes are separate. Fertilisation is
external. They are oviparous and development is indirect.

Examples: Bufo (Toad), Rana (Frog), Hyla (Tree frog), Salamandra (Salamander), Ichthyophis (Limbless amphibia).

(a)

(b)
 (c)

(d)

Figure 4.22 Reptiles: (a) Chameleon (b) Crocodilus (c) Chelone (d) Naja

4.2.11.5 Class – Reptilia

The class name refers to their creeping or crawling mode of locomotion (Latin, repere or reptum, to creep or crawl). They are mostly
terrestrial animals and their body is covered by dry and cornified skin, epidermal scales or scutes (Fig. 4.22). They do not have external
ear openings. Tympanum represents ear. Limbs, when present, are two pairs. Heart is usually three-chambered, but four-chambered in
crocodiles. Reptiles are poikilotherms. Snakes and lizards shed their scales as skin cast. Sexes are separate. Fertilisation is internal.
They are oviparous and development is direct.

Examples: Chelone (Turtle), Testudo (Tortoise), Chameleon (Tree lizard), Calotes (Garden lizard), Crocodilus (Crocodile), Alligator
(Alligator). Hemidactylus (Wall lizard), Poisonous snakes – Naja (Cobra), Bangarus (Krait), Vipera (Viper).

4.2.11.6 Class – Aves

The characteristic features of Aves (birds) are the presence of feathers and most of them can fly except flightless birds (e.g., Ostrich).
They possess beak (Figure 4.23). The forelimbs are modified into wings. The hind limbs generally have scales and are modified for
walking, swimming or clasping the tree branches. Skin is dry without glands except the oil gland at the base of the tail. Endoskeleton is
fully ossified (bony) and the long bones are hollow with air cavities (pneumatic).


 (a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

Figure 4.23 Some birds : (a) Neophron (b) Struthio (c) Psittacula (d) Pavo

The digestive tract of birds has additional chambers, the crop and gizzard. Heart is completely four-chambered. They are warm-
blooded (homoiothermous) animals, i.e., they are able to maintain a constant body temperature. Respiration is by lungs. Air sacs
connected to lungs supplement respiration. Sexes are separate. Fertilisation is internal. They are oviparous and development is direct.

Examples : Corvus (Crow), Columba (Pigeon), Psittacula (Parrot), Struthio (Ostrich), Pavo (Peacock), Aptenodytes (Penguin), Neophron
(Vulture).


4.2.11.7 Class – Mammalia

They are found in a variety of habitats – polar ice caps, deserts, mountains, forests, grasslands and dark caves. Some of them have
adapted to fly or live in water. The most unique mammalian characteristic is the presence of milk producing glands (mammary glands)
by which the young ones are nourished. They have two pairs of limbs, adapted for walking, running, climbing, burrowing, swimming
or flying (Figure 4.24).

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

Figure 4.24 Some mammals : (a) Ornithorhynchus (b) Macropus (c) Pteropus (d) Balaenoptera


The skin of mammals is unique in possessing hair. External ears or pinnae are present. Different types of teeth are present in the jaw.
Heart is four-chambered. They are homoiothermous. Respiration is by lungs. Sexes are separate and fertilisation is internal. They are
viviparous with few exceptions and development is direct.

Examples: Oviparous-Ornithorhynchus (Platypus); Viviparous - Macropus (Kangaroo), Pteropus (Flying fox), Camelus (Camel), Macaca
(Monkey), Rattus (Rat), Canis (Dog), Felis (Cat), Elephas (Elephant), Equus (Horse), Delphinus (Common dolphin), Balaenoptera (Blue
whale), Panthera tigris (Tiger), Panthera leo (Lion).
The salient distinguishing features of all phyla under animal kingdom is comprehensively given in the Table 4.2.

Table 4.2 Salient Features of Different Phyla in the Animal Kingdom

Summary
The basic fundamental features such as level of organisation, symmetry, cell organisation, coelom, segmentation, notochord, etc., have
enabled us to broadly classify the animal kingdom. Besides the fundamental features, there are many other distinctive characters
which are specific for each phyla or class.

Porifera includes multicellular animals which exhibit cellular level of organisation and have characteristic flagellated choanocytes. The
coelenterates have tentacles and bear cnidoblasts. They are mostly aquatic, sessile or free-floating. The ctenophores are marine
animals with comb plates. The platyhelminths have flat body and exhibit bilateral symmetry. The parasitic forms show distinct suckers
and hooks. Aschelminthes are pseudocoelomates and include parasitic as well as non-parasitic roundworms.

Annelids are metamerically segmented animals with a true coelom. The arthropods are the most abundant group of animals
characterised by the presence of jointed appendages. The molluscs have a soft body surrounded by an external calcareous shell. The
body is covered with external skeleton made of chitin. The echinoderms possess a spiny skin. Their most distinctive feature is the
presence of water vascular system. The hemichordates are a small group of worm-like marine animals. They have a cylindrical body
with proboscis, collar and trunk.

Phylum Chordata includes animals which possess a notochord either throughout or during early embryonic life. Other common features
observed in the chordates are the dorsal, hollow nerve cord and paired pharyngeal gill slits. Some of the vertebrates do not possess
jaws (Agnatha) whereas most of them possess jaws (Gnathostomata). Agnatha is represented by the class, Cyclostomata. They are the
most primitive chordates and are ectoparasites on fishes. Gnathostomata has two super classes, Pisces and Tetrapoda. Classes
Chondrichthyes and Osteichthyes bear fins for locomotion and are grouped under Pisces. The Chondrichthyes are fishes with
cartilaginous endoskeleton and are marine. Classes, Amphibia, Reptilia, Aves and Mammalia have two pairs of limbs and are thus
grouped under Tetrapoda. The amphibians have adapted to live both on land and water. Reptiles are characterised by the presence of
dry and cornified skin. Limbs are absent in snakes. Fishes, amphibians and reptiles are poikilothermous (cold-blooded). Aves are warm-
blooded animals with feathers on their bodies and forelimbs modified into wings for flying. Hind limbs are adapted for walking,
swimming, perching or clasping. The unique features of mammals are the presence of mammary glands and hairs on the skin. They
commonly exhibit viviparity.
 Exercises

1. What are the difficulties that you would face in classification of animals, if common fundamental features are not taken into
account?
NEETprep Answer

2. If you are given a specimen, what are the steps that you would follow to classify it?
NEETprep Answer

3. How useful is the study of the nature of body cavity and coelom in the classification of animals?
NEETprep Answer

4. Distinguish between intracellular and extracellular digestion?

NEETprep Answer

5. What is the difference between direct and indirect development?

NEETprep Answer

6. What are the peculiar features that you find in parasitic Platyhelminthes?
NEETprep Answer

7. What are the reasons that you can think of for the arthropods to constitute the largest group of the animal kingdom?
NEETprep Answer

8. Water vascular system is the characteristic of which group of the following:

(a) Porifera (b) Ctenophora (c) Echinodermata (d) Chordata

NEETprep Answer

9. “All vertebrates are chordates but all chordates are not vertebrates”. Justify the statement.
NEETprep Answer

10. How important is the presence of air bladder in Pisces?

NEETprep Answer

11. What are the modifications that are observed in birds that help them fly?
NEETprep Answer

12. Could the number of eggs or young ones produced by an oviparous and viviparous mother be equal? Why?
NEETprep Answer

13. Segmentation in the body is first observed in which of the following:

(a) Platyhelminthes (b) Aschelminthes (c) Annelida (d) Arthropoda

NEETprep Answer

14. Match the following:

(a) Operculum (i) Ctenophora

(b) Parapodia (ii) Mollusca

(c) Scales (iii) Porifera

(d) Comb plates (iv) Reptilia

(e) Radula (v) Annelida

(f) Hairs (vi) Cyclostomata and Chondrichthyes 

(g) Choanocytes (vii) Mammalia

(h) Gill slits (viii) Osteichthyes

NEETprep Answer

15. Prepare a list of some animals that are found parasitic on human beings.
NEETprep Answer
 EXEMPLAR QUESTION

1. In some animal groups, the body is found divided into compartments with at least some organs. This characteristic feature is called

(a) Segmentation

(b) Metamerism

(c) Metagenesis

(d) Metamorphosis

NEETprep Answer

2. Given below are types of cells present in some animals. Which of the following cells can differentiate to perform different functions?

(a) choanocytes

(b) interstitial cells

(c) gastrodermal cells

(d) nematocytes

NEETprep Answer

3. Which one of the following sets of animals share a four chambered heart?

(a) Amphibian, Reptiles, Birds

(b) Crocodiles, Birds, Mammals

(c) Crocodiles, Lizards, Turtles

(d) Lizards, Mammals, Birds

NEETprep Answer

4. Which of the following pairs of animals has non-glandular skin?

(a) Snake and frog

(b) Chameleon and turtle

(c) Frog and pigeon

(d) Crocodile and tiger

NEETprep Answer

5. Birds and mammals share one of the following characteristics as a common feature.

(a) Pigmented skin



(b) Pneumatic bones

(c) Viviparity

(d) Warm blooded body

NEETprep Answer
6. Which one of the following sets of animals belong to a single taxonomic group?

(a) Cuttlefish, jellyfish, silverfish, dogfish, starfish

(b) bat, pigeon, butterfly

(c) Monkey, chimpanzee, man

(d) Silkworm, tapeworm, earthworm

NEETprep Answer

7. Which one of the following statements is incorrect?

(a) Mesoglea is present in between ectoderm and endoderm in Obelia

(b) Asterias exhibits radial symmetry an

(c) Fasciola is a pseudocoelomate animal

(d) Taenia is a triploblastic animal

NEETprep Answer

8. Which one of the following statements is incorrect?

(a) In cockroaches and prawns excretion of waste material occurs through Malpighian tubules.

(b) In ctenophores, locomotion is mediated by combplates.

(c) In Fasciola flame cells take part in excretion

(d) Farthworms are hermaphrodites and yet cross fertilisation take place among them.

NEETprep Answer

EXEMPLAR QUESTION

9. Which one of the following is oviparous?

(a) Platypus

(b) Flying fox (bat)

(c) Elephant

(d) Whale

NEETprep Answer

10. Which one of the following is not a poisonous snake?


(a) Cobra

(b) Viper

(c) Python

(d) Krait

NEETprep Answer
11. Match the following list of animals with their level of organisation.

Division of Labour Animal

(i) Organ level A. Pheretima

(ii) Cellular aggregate level B. Fasciola

(iii) Tissue level C. Spongilla

(iv) Organ system level D. Obelia

Choose the correct match showing division of labour with animal example.

(a) (i)-B, (ii)-C,(iii)-D and (iv)-A

(b) (i)-B, (ii)-D,(iii)-C and (iv)-A

(c) (i)-D, (ii)-A, (iii)-B and (iv)-C

(d) (i)-A,(ii)-D,(iii)-C and (v)-B

NEETprep Answer

12. Body cavity is the cavity present between body wall and gut wall. In some animals the body cavity is not lined by mesoderm. Such
animals are called.

(a) Acoelomate

(b) Pseudocoelomate

(c) Coelomate

(d) Haemocoelomate

NEETprep Answer

13. Match the column I with column II and choose the correct option.

Column I Column II

A. Porifera 1. Canal system

B. Aschelminthes 2. Water vascular system

C. Annelida 3. Muscular Pharynx

D. Arthropoda 4. Jointed appendages

E. Echinodermata 5. Metameres

Codes
A B C D E 

(a) 2 3 5 4 1

(b) 2 5 3 4 1

(c) 1 3 5 4 2

(d) 1 5 3 4 2
NEETprep Answer

14. Identify the phylum in which adults exhibit radial symmetry and larva exhibit bilateral symmetry.

NEETprep Answer

15. What is the importance of pneumatic bones and air sacs in Aves?

NEETprep Answer

16. What is metagenesis? Mention an example which exhibits this phenomenon.

NEETprep Answer

EXEMPLAR QUESTION

17. What is the role of feathers?

NEETprep Answer

18. Which group of chordates possess sucking and circular mouth without jaws?

NEETprep Answer

19. Give one example each for an animal possessing placoid scales and that with cycloid scales.

NEETprep Answer

20. Mention two modifications in reptiles required for terrestrial mode of life.

NEETprep Answer

21. Mention one example each for animals with chitinous exoskeleton and those covered by a calcareous shell.


NEETprep Answer

22. What is the role of radula in molluscs?

NEETprep Answer
23. Name the animal, which exhibits the phenomenon of bioluminescence. Mention the phylum to which it belongs.

NEETprep Answer

24. Write one example for each of the following in the space provided.

(a) Cold blooded animal .............. .

(b) Warm blooded animal ............ .

(c) Animal possessing dry and cornified skin ............... .

(d) Dioecious animal ................ .

NEETprep Answer

EXEMPLAR QUESTION

25. Differentiate between a diplobastic and a triploblastic animal.

NEETprep Answer

26. Give an example of the following

(a) Roundworm

(b) Fish possessing poison sting

(c) A limbless reptile/amphibian

(d) An oviparous mammal

NEETprep Answer

27. Provide appropriate technical term in the space provided.

(a) Blood-filled cavity in arthropods.........

(b) Free-floating form Of Cridaria ..........

(c) Stinging organ of jelly fishes ..........

(d) Lateral appendages in aquatic annelids .........

NEETprep Answer

28. Match the following.



Animals Locomotory Organ

 A. Octopus (i) Limbs

B. Crocodile (ii) Combplates

C. Catta (iii) Tentacles

D. Ctenoplana (iv) Fins

NEETprep Answer

29. Differentiate between

(a) Open circulatory system and closed circulatary system.

(b) Oviparous and viviparous characteristic .

(c) Direct development and Indirect development.

NEETprep Answer

30. Sort out the animals on the basis of their symmetry (radial or bilateral) coelenterates, ctenophores, annelids, arthropods and
echinoderms.

NEETprep Answer

31. There has been an increase in the number of chambers in heart during evolution of vertebrates. Give the names of the class of
vertebrates having two, three or four chambered heart.

NEETprep Answer

32. Fill up the blank spaces appropriately

Phylum/Class Excretory Organ Circulatory Organ Respiratory Organ

Arthropoda Lungs/Gills/ Tracheal System

Nephridia Closed Skin/Parapodia

Metanephridia Open

Amphibia Closed Lung

NEETprep Answer

EXEMPLAR QUESTION
33. Match the following

A. Amphibia (i) Air bladder

B. Mammals (ii) Cartilaginous notochord

C. Chondrichthyes (iii) Mammary glands

D. Osteiothyes (iv) Pneumatic bones

E. Cyclostomata (v) Dual habitat

F. Aves (vi) Sucking and circular mouth with out jaws.

NEETprep Answer

34. Endoparasites are found inside the host body. Mention the special structure, possessed by these and which enables them to survive
in those conditions.

NEETprep Answer

35. Match the following and write correct choice in space provided

Animal Characteristics

A. Pila (i) Jointed appendages

B. Cockroach (ii) Perching

C. Asterias (iii) Water vascular system

D. Torpedo (iv) Electric organ

E. Parrot (v) Presence of shell

F. Dog fish (vi) Placoid scales

A. ...............

B. ...............

C. ...............

D. ..............

E. ...............

F. ...............

NEETprep Answer

36. Differentiate between

(a) Open and closed circulatory system

(b) Oviparity and viviparity

(c) Direct and indirect development

(d) Acoelomate and pseudocoelomate

(e) Notochord and nerve cord

(f) Polyp and medusa

NEETprep Answer

37. Give the characteristic features of the following citing one example of each

(a) Chondrichthyes and ostichthyes

(b) Urochordata and cephalochordata

NEETprep Answer

38. Mention two similarities between

(a) Aves and mammals

(b) A frog and crocodile

(c) A turtle and Pila

NEETprep Answer

39. Name

(a) A limbless animal

(b) A cold blooded animal

(c) A warm blooded animal

(d) An animal possessing dry and cornified skin

(e) An animal having canal system and spicules

(f) An animal with cnidoblasts

NEETprep Answer

40. Give an example for each of the following

(a) A viviparous animal

(b) A fish possessing a poison sting

(c) A fish possessing an electric organ

(d) An organ, which regulates buoyancy


(e) Animal, which exhibits alternation of generation

(f) Oviparous animal with mammary gland

NEETprep Answer

EXEMPLAR QUESTION
41. Excretory organs of different animals are given below. Choose correctly and write in the space provided.

Animal Characteristics

A. Balanoglossus (i) Metanephridia

B. Leech (ii) Nephridia

C. Locust (iii) Flame cells

D. Liver fluke (iv) Absent

E. Sea urchin (v) Malpighian tubule

F. Pila (vi) Proboscis gland

A. ...............

B. ...............

C. ...............

D. ..............

E. ...............

F. ...............

NEETprep Answer

42. Give three major differences between chordates and non chordates and draw a schematic sketch of a chordate showing those
features.

NEETprep Answer

43. What is the relationship between germinal layers and the formation of body cavity in case of coelomate, acoelomates and
pseudocoelomates?

NEETprep Answer

44. Comment upon the habitats and external features of animals belonging to class-Amphibia and Reptilia.

NEETprep Answer

45. Mammals are most adapted among the vertebrates elaborate.

NEETprep Answer
 NEET Information
8527521718 NEET 2025
[email protected] NEET Syllabus
S-15, 2nd floor Uphar Cinema Market, above Red Chilli NEET Application Process
Restaurant, Green Park Extension, New Delhi, 110016 NEET Seat Intake
NEET Previous Year Papers

AIIMS Previous Year Papers






courses Company
NEET Course About Us
NEET Course (English) Terms of Use
Bio Masterclass Privacy Policy
NEET Test Series Refund Policy
All Courses

Botany Questions Chemistry Questions

Living World Some Basic Concepts of Chemistry
Biological Classification Structure of Atom
Plant Kingdom Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties
Morphology of Flowering Plants Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure
Anatomy of Flowering Plants States of Matter
Cell-unit of Life Thermodynamics
Cell Cycle and Cell Division Equilibrium
Transport in Plants Redox Reactions
Mineral Nutrition Hydrogen
Photosynthesis in Higher Plants The s-Block Elements
Respiration in Plants The p-Block Elements-XI
Plant Growth and Development Organic Chemistry - Some Basic Principles and Techniques
Reproduction in Organisms Hydrocarbons
Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants Environmental Chemistry
Principles of Inheritance and Variation The Solid State
Molecular Basis of Inheritance Solutions
Strategies for Enhancement in Food Production Electrochemistry
Microbes in Human Welfare Chemical Kinetics
Organisms and Populations Surface Chemistry
Ecosystem General Principles and Processes of Isolation of Elements
Biodiversity and Conservation The p-Block Elements-XII
Environmental Issues The d and f Block Elements
Coordination Compounds
Haloalkanes and Haloarenes
Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers
Aldehydes, Ketones and Carboxylic Acids
Amines
Biomolecules
Polymers
Chemistry in Everyday Life


Physics Questions Zoology Questions

Units and Measurement Animal Kingdom
Mathematical Tools Structural Organisation in Animals
Motion in A Straight Line Biomolecules
Motion in A Plane Digestion and Absorption
Laws of Motion Breathing and Exchange of Gases
 Work, Energy and Power Body Fluids and Circulation
Systems of Particles and Rotational Motion Excretory Products and their Elimination
Gravitation Locomotion and Movement
Mechanical Properties of Solids Neural Control and Coordination
Mechanical Properties of Fluids Chemical Coordination and Integration
Thermal Properties of Matter Human Reproduction
Thermodynamics Reproductive Health
Kinetic Theory of Gases Evolution
Oscillations Human Health and Disease
Waves Biotechnology Principles and Processes
Electric Charges and Fields Biotechnology and its Application
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance
Current Electricity
Moving Charges and Magnetism
Magnetism and Matter
Electromagnetic Induction
Alternating Current
Electromagnetic Waves
Ray Optics and Optical Instruments
Wave Optics
Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter
Atoms
Nuclei
Semiconductor Electronics
© 2024 GoodEd Technologies Pvt. Ltd.