Question

Excretory structures present in the members of Phylum Platyhelminthes :

• A. Nephridia
• B. Protonephridia
• C. Malpighian tubules
• D. Flame cells

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Flame cells

Excretory Mechanism in Platyhelminthes

• The primary excretory structures found in members of Phylum Platyhelminthes (flatworms) are Flame Cells.

• These cells are scientifically known as Protonephridia.

• Functionality: Flame cells primarily function in osmoregulation (water balance) and the excretion of nitrogenous wastes.

• Structure: They consist of a cluster of cilia located within a hollow, cup-shaped cell. The beating of these cilia resembles the flickering of a candle flame, which is the origin of their name.

• Mechanism: The beating cilia create a negative pressure that draws interstitial fluid into the tubule system, where filtration and reabsorption occur before the waste is expelled through excretory pores.

• Phylum Characteristics: Platyhelminthes are acoelomate, triploblastic, and dorso-ventrally flattened animals.

• Regeneration: Many members, such as Planaria, exhibit high capacity for regeneration.

• Classification Examples: Taenia solium (Tapeworm), Fasciola hepatica (Liver fluke), and Dugesia (Planaria) are classic exam examples.