Role of the water vascular system in Echinoderms is:
A. Respiration and Locomotion
B. Excretion and Locomotion
C. Capture and transport of food
D. Digestion and Respiration
E. Digestion and Excretion
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

The correct answer is A and C Only

Concept:

• Echinoderms have an endoskeleton of calcareous ossicles and, hence, the name Echinodermata (Spiny bodied)
• All are marine with organ-system level of organisation.
• The adult echinoderms are radially symmetrical but larvae are bilaterally symmetrical.
• They are triploblastic and coelomate animals.
• Digestive system is complete with mouth on the lower (ventral) side and anus on the upper (dorsal) side.
• The most distinctive feature of echinoderms is the presence of water vascular system which helps in locomotion, capture and transport of food and respiration.
• An excretory system is absent. Sexes are separate.
• Reproduction is sexual. Fertilisation is usually external.
• Development is indirect with free-swimming larva.
• Examples: Asterias (Star fish), Echinus (Sea urchin), Antedon (Sea lily), Cucumaria (Sea cucumber) and Ophiura (Brittle star).

Explanation:

• Role of the Water Vascular System:
  • Respiration: The water vascular system facilitates gaseous exchange by circulating water through structures like tube feet and dermal branchiae, allowing oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide release.
  • Locomotion: The tube feet, powered by the water vascular system, create suction to help the organism move and adhere to surfaces. This is critical for activities like crawling and climbing in their marine environment.
  • Capture and Transport of Food: In some echinoderms, the water vascular system aids in handling food. For example, the tube feet help starfish pry open bivalve shells or pass food particles toward the mouth