Learning Objective

Understand the Support Systems in Animals

Success Criteria
You are successful if you can;
i. Explain the support system in vertebrates and the various support systems in invertebrates
ii. Compare and contrast the support system in land and aquatic vertebrates iii. Compare and contrast the support system in land and aquatic invertebrates

8.1 Support Systems in Animals

The reason for animals to have a support system is : To support the body To provide body shape To assist body movement

3 basic types of skeletons in animals

Vertebrates Support system in animals Invertebrates Hydrostatic skeleton Endoskeleton

Exoskeleton

Endoskeleton
Also known as internal skeleton Located inside the body of all vertebrates includes human being. Made up of bones and cartilages

 Functions ;
Support body weight Maintain body shape Protect soft internal organs Provide points for the attachment of muscles Allow free movement

Exoskeleton
Also known as external skeleton Hard outer skin or shell of invertebrates Made of cuticle or calcium carbonate Example of animals :

 Functions;
Maintain body shape and support body weight Protect internal organs Provide place for the attachment of muscles Allow movement of body parts

Hydrostatic Skeleton
Consists of a muscular wall which encloses a body part cavity that is filled with fluid This body fluid pushes out and exerts pressure in all directions This body fluid pressure, called hydrostatic pressure gives support and shape to the animal A type of support system for some invertebrates like earthworm and jellyfish.