Problem 141 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Select the incorrect matching: (a) Asterias Star fish (b) Echinus Sea urchin \(\begin{array}{ll}\text { (c) Antedon } & \- & \text { Sea lily }\end{array}\) (d) Cucumaria Sea fan

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The incorrect match is (d) Cucumaria is not the scientific name for Sea Fan. It is for Sea Cucumber.

Step 1: Identify the Correct Matches

Using biological knowledge or a reliable source, find out the scientific names for Starfish, Sea Urchin, Sea Lily and Sea Fan. Asterias is the scientific name for Starfish, Echinus is the scientific name for Sea Urchin and Antedon is the scientific name for Sea Lily.

Step 2: Identify the Incorrect Match

By process of elimination, Cucumaria, which is the scientific name for Sea Cucumber, not Sea Fan, is the incorrect match.

Key Concepts

starfish

Starfish, or sea stars, are fascinating echinoderms that captivate with their beauty and unique biology. They belong to the class Asteroidea, and despite their common name, they are not actually fish. Starfish boast a radial symmetry, typically with five arms extending from a central disc, but some species can have more arms.

Their bodies are covered with small spiny structures, giving them protection against predators. Starfish are known for their extraordinary ability to regenerate lost limbs, allowing them to survive predators' attacks or environmental challenges.

In terms of diet, starfish are mostly carnivorous, feeding on clams, oysters, and other small marine organisms. They play a pivotal role in maintaining the marine ecosystem's balance. Starfish belong to the genus Asterias and are truly marvels of the ocean.

sea urchin

Sea urchins are spiny, globular animals found on the sea floor. They are part of the class Echinoidea and are notable for their unique spherical shape covered in hard, movable spines. These spines serve as a defense mechanism against predators and help in locomotion.

Sea urchins primarily feed on algae, contributing to the ecosystem by controlling algae growth on coral reefs and rocky outcroppings. This dietary habit helps prevent algal overgrowth, promoting a healthy underwater environment.

The scientific name for a common sea urchin is Echinus. Sea urchins possess a simple yet effective structure known as Aristotle’s lantern, used for scraping food from surfaces.

• They play a critical role in marine ecosystems.
• They contribute to biodiversity by serving as prey for larger marine animals.
• They are an indicator of environmental changes, essential for monitoring ecosystem health.

scientific nomenclature

Scientific nomenclature is the formal system of naming species by using universally accepted biological classifications. This system ensures that each organism has a unique and standardized name.

The binomial nomenclature is the most common method used, consisting of two names: the genus name (which is always capitalized) and the species name (which is not). For example, the scientific name for a starfish is Asterias.

Key points about scientific nomenclature:

• It avoids confusion caused by local or common names.
• Follows a Latin-based system, offering a universal language for scientists.
• Enables accurate scientific communication across different regions and languages.

This standardization is crucial for the classification and study of living organisms across the globe.

sea cucumber

Sea cucumbers are intriguing echinoderms belonging to the class Holothuroidea. Despite their name, they are not related to the common cucumbers found in gardens. Instead, they possess an elongated body covered in leathery skin, which houses a calcareous skeleton.

Sea cucumbers play an essential role in marine ecosystems by recycling nutrients and keeping ocean floors clean. They feed on detritus and plankton, helping to decompose organic material.

The scientific name for a common sea cucumber is Cucumaria. An interesting feature of sea cucumbers is their ability to expel and later regenerate internal organs as a defense mechanism against predators.

• They provide a habitat for various marine life forms, contributing to biodiversity.
• Some are harvested for food delicacies, especially in Asian cuisines.
• Nutrient recycling benefits the entire ocean ecosystem.

By fulfilling these ecological roles, sea cucumbers help maintain the balance and health of marine environments.