Kids Research Express

. Lampshell, common name for members of a phylum of small marine animals with two shells. Formerly classified in the same phylum as mollusks, lampshells differ from them in that the shells lie dorsally and ventrally instead of left and right, and the enclosed organism has an armlike appendage at each side of the mouth . Lampshells were a dominant form of life in earliest geological times, but since the close of the Paleozoic Era, they have been steadily decreasing. Although nearly 4,700 genera are known, only about 81 of these are living today. Most living lampshells live at moderate depths, sometimes down to 450 m (1500 ft). Most are less than 2.5 cm (less than 1 in) across. The phylum is generally grouped into two classes: those that have hinged shell valves, and those that do not have hinges. Scientific classification: Lampshells belong to the phylum Brachiopoda. Lampshells having hinges make up the class Articulata. Those without hinges make up the class Inarticulata.

. Arthropoda -> Largest and most diverse invertebrate phylum characterized by animals with jointed limbs, a segmented body, and an exoskeleton made of chitin. Arthropods are abundant and successful in almost all habitats. The exoskeleton is divided into plates that enhance flexibility and movement. Periodic molting of the exoskeleton permits growth. Arthropods have a complex brain and nervous system. Many arthropods have a compound eye made up of numerous light-sensitive parts. Reproduction is sexual. – Examples: Ants, beetles, butterflies, lobsters, shrimp, crabs, scorpions, spiders, ticks Ectoprocta or Bryozoa -> Small, mostly marine animals that resemble simplified horseshoe worms, with a lophophore surrounding the mouth. They live in colonies, attaching to the sea bottom or seaweed. Bryozoans are hermaphroditic and reproduce asexually (by budding) and sexually. – Examples: Moss animals Entoprocta or Kamptozoa -> Small, mostly marine animals with a globular body mounted