Question

What is the function of parapodia and flame cells?

Answer 1

Parapodia:

1. These are the basic locomotion organs that are used in both swimming and creeping.
2. They also aid the function of respiration due to their strong vascularization.

Flame cells:

1. Flatworms, nemerteans and rotifers all have flame cells.
2. These are specialized excretory cells found in the smallest freshwater invertebrates.
3. Flame cells are excretory organs and help in osmoregulation and excretion.
4. These cells are found in tubules that contain a cluster of cilia that resembles a flickering flame when viewed under a microscope.