What shared characteristic of an animals is the example about? IN What shared characteristic of an animals is the example about? Sponges filter microscopic organisms from the water for food. Enzymes are secreted in an earthworm’s digestive tract. Gorillas travel miles in search of food. The soft body of a mollusk has many different types of tissue. A cat spots prey with its eyes, and its muscles work to chase prey.

Introduction to Animals Chapter 12 Animals are diverse, but they have basic characteristics in common. 1. Are made of many cells. 2. Cells have a nucleus and organelles. 3. Depend on other living things in the environment for food.

4. Digest their food. 5. Most animals can move. 6. Can reproduce sexually; some also can reproduce asexually.

B. Adaptations from previous generations help individuals survive and reproduce. A basic adaptation is obtaining energy from food. a. Herbivores eat plants.

b. Carnivores eat other animals.

c. Animals that eat both plants and animals are omnivores.

2. Physical adaptations help animals survive. a. Protective coverings such as shells or quills help protect animals from predators.

b. Large size protects some animals.

c. Mimicry or camouflage help other animals blend into the environment or confuse predators.

d. Detritivores such as beetles and millipedes eat decaying matter called detritus.

~more adaptations~ Camouflage is an adaptation for predators so they can sneak up on their prey. Behavioral adaptations can help animals survive. a. Some animals use scent or ink to discourage predators. b. Speed allows some animals to outrun predators. c. Traveling in groups can assist both predators and prey.

C. Animals are classified based on similar characteristics. Vertebrates have a backbone; invertebrates do not have a backbone.

~another way animals are classified by~ 2. Symmetry is how an animal’s body parts are arranged. a. Asymmetrical animals do not have a definite shape. b. Animals with radial symmetry have parts arranged in a circle around a center point. c. Animals with bilateral symmetry have mirrored body halves.

Animal Classification