(a(i) Describe three features of a typical vertebra.
(ii) Name three types of skeletons found in animals, and in each case name one animal which possesses it.
(b)(i) State four functions of the mammalian skeleton.
(ii) Name three types of skeletons found in animals, and in each case name one animal which possesses it.
Explanation
(a)(i) Features of typical vetebra are:
(1) Centrum-solid piece of bone
(2) Neural Canal-passage/hole of the spinal cord
(3) Neural arch - Forming an arch over the centrum and surrounding the neural canal
(4) Neural spine-projects upwards dorsally from the neural arch.
(5) Transverse processes - projections from the sides of the neural arch.
(6) Facets/articular surfaces for adjacent vertebrae/ zysapophysis.
(ii) Types of Skeleton are:
(1) Exoskeleton; crabs, centipede, millipede, insects
(2) Endoskeleton/any named mammal/human/fish, lizards, birds
(3) Hydrostatic skeleton; worms, sea anemone, slug, earthworm, caterpillars, etc.
(b)(i) Functions of Mammalian Skeleton are as follows:
(1) Protection - gives framework/shape to the body
(2) Movement/locomotion - attachment of muscles
(3) Support/rigidity
(4) Breathing movement
(5) Production of red blood cells.
(ii) Types of joint in mammal:
(1) Immovable/fixed joint - Gliding/sliding joint
(2) Ball and socket Pivot joint
(3) Hinge joint