Biology
Biology
12th Edition
ISBN: 9781259296529
Author: Mader
Publisher: MCG
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Concept explainers

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Chapter 31, Problem 1NS.1QC
Summary Introduction

To explain:

The phenomenon of regeneration complicates the definition of what constitutes an “animal” versus single celled life forms.

Introduction:

The potential of regeneration in certain animals is exhibited by some organs such as hydra. It can regenerate its lost body parts or even entire body and a salamander can regenerate its lost limb. As the evolution progresses, the potential of regeneration in some species will be lost such as in higher organisms like humans. This is so because; they do not posses regeneration potential.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Explanation of Solution

Animals are defined as multicellular organism that has complex organs and organ system such as muscular tissue, nervous tissue and so on. All of these systems work in a coordinated fashion under the control of the “nervous system”. Complete regeneration (reproduction) of an animal is a complex process.

A bacterium (single celled life form) can regulate its metabolism under flux control. It can divide by simple reproductive methods like transduction, budding, fission and so on.

Hydras and sponges have genes and special molecular mechanisms which allow them to regenerate, but such molecular mechanisms are not present in the higher eukaryotes like animals. The presence of such complex mechanisms makes the given definition complicated.

Conclusion

The presence of complex structure and mechanisms are making the given definition intricate.

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