Roundworms and segmented worms

Start with body structure

Begin with Phylum Annelida, a mind map that introduces a segmented body, a body cavity and bristles called setae or chaetae. It also includes the earthworm and its effects on soil. The note Annelid adds detail on segmentation, including the grooves that mark body segments and the structures that separate them.

For a roundworm perspective, look at Phylum Nematode. It covers a rounded cross-section, a body cavity called a pseudocoelom and a covering called a cuticle. It also names examples such as eelworm and lungworm.

Compare the groups

After studying the separate maps, use Nematodes and Annelids to bring the groups together. Its nematode branch includes parasites, nutrition, the digestive system and reproduction. As you read, note the features described as unsegmented and compare them with the segmented body in Phylum Annelida.

The Annelids mind map offers another way to study annelids: it looks at where they live, including soft mud, soil and spaces between rocks. Annelida includes marine and terrestrial habitats. These maps add habitat details to the body features introduced in the other resources.

Check and connect

The annelid quiz with the numbered title asks about marine, terrestrial and freshwater species. Another annelid quiz covers groups including bristle worms and earthworms. Use a quiz after reading a map, then return to the relevant branch or note to check anything you were unsure about.

This topic is part of the Invertebrates unit in Biology and natural sciences. The maps, note and quizzes give you different ways to study the worm resources within that unit. Choose a resource and make a short comparison in your own words.