Previous Year Question
Which of the following animals possesses a well-developed water vascular system?
A.
Starfish
B.
Sponge
C.
Hydra
D.
Jellyfish
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
Starfish belongs to the phylum Echinodermata, whose characteristic feature is the presence of a water vascular system. According to NCERT, the water vascular system is one of the most distinctive features of echinoderms and helps in locomotion, capture and transport of food, and respiration.
NCERT also lists Asterias (Starfish) as an example of Echinodermata. Therefore, among the given options, the animal possessing a well-developed water vascular system is Starfish.
Sponge belongs to Porifera, while Hydra and Jellyfish belong to Cnidaria; they do not possess the characteristic echinoderm water vascular system.