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Taxonomists and other scientists will look for a variety of structural characteristics to classify an animal. Some of the major characteristics are: presence or absence of a backbone (vertebrate versus invertebrate), presence and type of symmetry (bilateral, radial, etc), type of circulatory system (open or closed), adaptations of the extremities (wings, specialized limbs, etc) and structure of the heart (number and orientation of chambers).

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A taxonomist looks for shared physical traits and genetic relationships when classifying an animal. These characteristics help determine the animal's evolutionary lineage and its place within the classification system.

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Q: What structural characteristic does a taxonomist look for in classifying an animal?
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Why is it important for a taxonomist to look at patterns of development when trying to classify animals?

Examining patterns of development can reveal valuable information about the evolutionary relationships and ancestry of different animal species. It helps taxonomists distinguish between closely related species and understand their evolutionary history. Additionally, studying development can provide insights into the functional and ecological diversity of different animal groups.


How did Aristotle contribute to animal classification?

Aristotle created a system of classifying animals based on their shared physical characteristics, grouping them into broad categories like mammals, birds, and fish. He also recognized the importance of observing and cataloging different species to understand their biology and behavior, laying the foundation for future advancements in animal classification.


Which animal phylum has the lowest structural organisazation?

The phylum Porifera, which includes sponges, has the lowest structural organization among animal phyla. Sponges lack true tissues and organs, instead consisting of loosely organized cell layers that perform basic functions like feeding and reproduction.


Annelids are the first of the animal phyla studied to have what general characteristic?

Annelids are the first animal phyla to have a true body cavity (coelom), which is enclosed by mesoderm. This cavity enables more complex organ systems and allows for greater specialization of body functions.


What is the scientific name for animal adaptation?

The scientific term for animal adaptation is "biological adaptation." It refers to the process by which a species evolves over time to better survive and thrive in its environment. Adaptations can be structural, physiological, or behavioral.

Related questions

What is the name biologists classify animals called?

You're referring to the person responsible for classifying animals? People who classify animals are animal taxonomist!


Who studies types of animal classifacation?

Taxonomist and systematist study classification .


Why can't basketball be used as a characteristic for classifying that person as part of the animal kingdom?

Because basketball is a sport and is used as a noun or verb not an adjective therefore it cannot describe an object


Why don't scientists know every animal on Earth?

There are billions of animals on earth. Some of them are already classified others are yet to be discovered. Up to date, the taxonomist or the scientist that are defining groups are still classifying some groups based on their shared biological characteristics. It is on-going academic discipline.


Are fins and streamlines structural or behavioral?

These are structural. They're to do with an animal's structure. Behavioural means to do with how an animal behaves, or responds.


What organelle was important in classifying cells as either a plant or an animal cell?

The cell wall is what classifies it as a plant or animal cell.


What would be the least useful piece of information for classifying an organism as an animal?

Vertabata


What is the characteristic animal of Africa?

lion


What is the characteristic animal of Antarctica?

penguin


What is the characteristic animal of Asia?

elephant


What is the characteristic animal of Australia?

kangaroo


What type of adaptation are the external characteristics of an animal?

structural