Final answer:
Earthworms utilize giant axons for a rapid escape response, helping them quickly react to threats. The segmentation found in annelids allows for localized muscle contractions and coordinated movement through peristalsis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Giant axons in the earthworm are primarily utilized for rapid escape response. This allows earthworms to quickly respond to threats by coordinating fast, efficient movements. The mechanism behind this involves the transmission of nerve impulses at high speeds along these giant axons, enabling the earthworm to respond faster than it would with normal-sized neurons.
Segmentation and Locomotion in Annelids
Segmentation greatly enhances annelid locomotion by allowing for localized muscle contractions and coordinated movement. In annelid worms, like earthworms, each body segment contains nerve and muscle tissues. This segmental arrangement means that muscle contractions can be localized to certain areas, facilitating a refined and efficient movement pattern called peristalsis. Peristalsis involves rhythmic waves of muscle contractions and relaxations that enable the earthworm to move by altering the pressure within their hydrostatic skeleton.
As it pertains to question 14 on how segmentation enhances annelid locomotion, the correct answer is:
d. Muscle contractions can be localized to specific regions of the body to coordinate movement.