Key Characteristics of the Phylum
- Dorsoventrally flattened
- Aroelomates
- Bilateral symmetry
- The simplest animals to be triblastic
Structure and Function
- Flatworms have moderate cephalization
- Ganglia are groups of nerve cells that form around the head region
- Flatworms have tissues, organs, and organ systems
- Their flat shape places all cells close to their surroundings allowing gas exchange and elimination of wastes. Flame cells, however, are used to regulate osmotic balance
- Pharynx - food tube that serves as the only opening for the digestive system, sucks food in.
Habitat
Interesting Facts
- Flatworms can reproduce by regeneration
- The most popular form of flatworm is tapeworms
- Flatworms can live as both independently as well as parasitically