Characteristics of Echinodermata

 

            Living representatives of Echinodermata include : Sea Lilies, Starfish, Bristle Stars, Sea Urchins, and Sea Cucumbers.

They are the largest phylum to lack any freshwater or land representatives.

Most are pentamemal, meaning that they have fivefold symmetry, with rays or arms in fives or multiples of five.

Many fossil Echinoderms were not pentameral.

Many Echinoderms form “Tube Feet”, with which they can move or grip with.

The oldest known Echinoderm is the Vendian Fossil.

All echinoderms are marine; they cannot live in freshwater or on land.

They range from a few millimeters to a few decimeters in size.

Almost all Echinoderms are bottom dwellers.

Above is a Sea Cucumber