Phylum

A phylum is a taxonomic rank in biological classification that groups organisms based on certain common characteristics. It is one of the major levels of classification, ranking above class and below kingdom. Organisms within a phylum share certain fundamental features, such as body plan, symmetry, and other structural and developmental characteristics.

Characteristics of Phylum

Phylum classification is based on a variety of characteristics, including body symmetry, presence or absence of a coelom (body cavity), segmentation, and other anatomical features. Additionally, phylum may also be classified based on molecular and genetic similarities among the organisms within the group.

Examples of Phyla

There are numerous phyla in the animal kingdom, each with its own unique set of characteristics and traits. Some examples of phyla include:

Arthropoda: This phylum includes insects, arachnids, and crustaceans. They are characterized by their jointed limbs and exoskeleton.
Chordata: This phylum includes vertebrates and other organisms with a notochord at some stage of their development. Humans and other mammals belong to this phylum.
Mollusca: This phylum includes snails, clams, and squids. These organisms typically have a soft body and a hard shell.
Porifera: This phylum includes sponges, which are simple, aquatic animals with porous bodies.

Study Guide

To study and understand the concept of phylum, you should focus on the following key points:

Learn about the major phyla within the animal kingdom and their defining characteristics.
Understand the importance of phylum classification in organizing and categorizing living organisms.
Explore the evolutionary relationships between different phyla and how they have evolved over time.
Examine the role of phylogenetic analysis and molecular biology in determining phylum classification.
Compare and contrast the characteristics of different phyla and understand how these traits contribute to the diversity of life on Earth.

By mastering these key points, you will have a solid understanding of the concept of phylum and its significance in the field of biology.

◂Science Worksheets and Study Guides Eighth Grade. The Movement of Ocean Water

Study Guide

The Movement of Ocean Water

Worksheet/Answer key

The Movement of Ocean Water

Worksheet/Answer key

The Movement of Ocean Water

Worksheet/Answer key

The Movement of Ocean Water

Vocabulary/Answer key

The Movement of Ocean Water

Vocabulary/Answer key

The Movement of Ocean Water

The resources above cover the following skills:

Earth/Space Science: Students will use scientific skills and processes to explain the chemical and physical interactions (i.e., natural forces and cycles, transfer of energy) of the environment, Earth, and the universe that occur over time.

Interactions of Hydrosphere and Atmosphere: Cite evidence to explain the relationship between the hydrosphere and atmosphere.

Identify and describe how the temperature and precipitation in a geographic area are affected by surface features and changes in atmospheric and ocean content: Relative location of mountains; Volcanic eruptions; Proximity to large bodies of water; Heat energy of ocean currents.

Interactions of Hydrosphere and Atmosphere: Recognize and describe the various factors that affect climate.

Identify and describe how the temperature and precipitation of an area are affected by surface and ocean features: Relative location of mountains; Proximity to large bodies of water; Warm and cold ocean currents.

Recognize and describe the global effects of volcanic eruptions, greenhouse gases, and El Nino.