Difference Between Endoskeleton & Exoskeleton
Characteristics |
Endoskeleton |
Exoskeleton |
Definition |
an internal skeleton that supports the body and safeguards internal organs | external hard covering that encases the body and gives it support and protection |
Composition |
Joints and ligaments join bones or cartilage together. | a strong, shielding polysaccharide called chitin |
Location |
Internal | External |
Examples |
Vertebrates (including humans), echinoderms, cephalopods | Arthropods (insects, crustaceans, and arachnids), some mollusks (snails, clams) |
Provides Support |
Yes | Yes |
Protects organs |
Yes | Yes |
Enables Movements |
Yes | Yes |
Range of motion |
Greater | Limited |
Growth and Development |
Grows with Creatures | Shed to allow for growth |
Energy requirement |
Energy requirement is high to maintain and repair | Minimal energy required |
Vulnerability |
Injury and disease | damage and deformation if exposed under physical stress |
Adaptability |
Can repair and regenerate damaged bones and tissues | maintains structural integrity,even under very high physical stress the specialized molted |
Difference Between Endoskeleton And Exoskeleton
Exoskeletons and endoskeletons are two different categories of support systems that can be found in the animal kingdom. An exoskeleton is an external hard covering that encases the body and serves as support and protection, whereas an endoskeleton is an internal framework made of bones or cartilage that offers support, protection, and anchorage for muscles. Invertebrates like echinoderms (like starfish) and cephalopods as well as vertebrates like humans have endoskeletons (e.g., squid).
The majority of arthropods, such as insects, crustaceans, and arachnids, as well as some mollusks, like snails and clams, on the other hand, have exoskeletons.
Exoskeletons and endoskeletons both serve as structural supports, but they are distinct in terms of their location, make-up, and developmental origins.
Understanding these variations can help us better understand the special adaptations and skills that these various skeletal system types in animals have developed over time.
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