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Multiple Choice
Which of the following phyla always has a complete gut?
A
Porifera
B
Cnidaria
C
Annelida
D
Platyhelminthes
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding what a complete gut is. A complete gut, also known as a complete digestive tract, has two openings: a mouth and an anus, allowing for a one-way flow of food and waste.
Review the characteristics of each phylum listed in the problem. Porifera (sponges) lack a true digestive system and instead filter feed, so they do not have a complete gut.
Consider Cnidaria, which includes jellyfish and corals. They have a gastrovascular cavity with a single opening that serves as both mouth and anus, so they do not have a complete gut.
Examine Platyhelminthes, which are flatworms. They also have a gastrovascular cavity with a single opening, similar to Cnidaria, and thus do not have a complete gut.
Finally, look at Annelida, which includes segmented worms like earthworms. Annelids have a complete digestive system with a mouth and an anus, making them the phylum with a complete gut.