Question

Jointed legs are the characteristic feature of which phylum?

• A. Arthropoda
• B. Annelida
• C. Nematoda
• D. Echinodermata

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Arthropoda

The correct option is A.

Explanation of correct option:

1. The name ‘Arthropoda’ originated from the word ‘arthron’ meaning ‘joint’ and 'podos’ meaning ‘foot’.
2. Thus, jointed legs are the characteristic feature of the phylum Arthropoda which helps in locomotion.
3. Example includes cockroaches, grasshopper, etc.

Explanation of the incorrect option:

Option B:

1. Organisms belonging to the phylum Annelida have setae or parapodia which help in locomotion.
2. Setae also helps earthworms from slipping backward.

Option C:

1. Organisms belonging to the phylum Nematoda have cilia that help in locomotion.
2. Nematodes also use cilia for sensing the surrounding environment.

Option D:

1. Organisms belonging to the phylum Echinodermata have tube feet that help in locomotion.
2. Tube feet also secrete and spread sticky mucus that traps small organisms.

Final answer: Jointed legs are the characteristic feature of the phylum Arthropoda.