Question

Which type of organism moves by peristaltic muscle contraction—extending its body in one direction, then shortening and pulling itself along a surface?

a) Snail
b) Earthworm
c) Snake
d) Spider

Answer 1

Earthworms move by peristaltic muscle contraction, using a hydrostatic skeleton to extend and shorten their bodies for movement.

Step-by-step explanation:

The type of organism that moves by peristaltic muscle contraction—extending its body in one direction, then shortening and pulling itself along a surface—is an earthworm. Earthworms utilize a hydrostatic skeleton which involves the muscles surrounding their coelom contracting to change its shape, thus causing movement. The alternating contraction and relaxation of these muscles, or peristalsis, allows the earthworm to elongate and shorten its body, facilitating movement along the substrate.