Question

Peripatus is a connecting link between?

• A. Ctenophores and Platyhelminthes
• B. Coelenterata and Porifera
• C. Annelida and Arthropoda
• D. Mollusca and Echinodermata

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Annelida and Arthropoda

The correct option is C.

Explanation of the correct answer:

1. Peripatus is a living fossil.
2. Its jointed legs, appendages, compound eyes, and tracheas show their link to the Arthropoda.
3. Its segmented body, nephridia, and non-chitinous outer layer show their link with Annelida.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option A:

1. Peripatus shows no commonality with Ctenophores and Platyhelminthes.
2. Ctenophores and Platyhelminthes are diploblastic with unsegmented bodies.
3. Ctenophores have cilia for locomotion and Platyhelminths have dorsoventrally flattened bodies.

Option B:

1. Peripatus shows no commonality with Coelenterata and Porifera.
2. Neither have the organ system level of organization.
3. They are diploblastic with unsegmented bodies.

Option D:

1. Peripatus shows no commonality with Mollusca and Echinodermata
2. Both have unsegmented bodies.
3. Mollusca are soft-bodied with calcareous shells and Echinodermata have endoskeletons made of calcareous ossicles.

Final answer: Peripatus is a connecting link between Annelida and Arthropoda.