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Repetition, Segmentation, Differentiation

NATURE

The following natural forms have been picked for their resemblance to Andy Goldsworthy's works.

 

THE RISE OF SEGMENTATION: ANNELIDS


Body built from series of similar segments
Like prefabricated building

Advantages to early embryonic segmentation:

  • Repetition of organ systems less lethal if one segment damaged
  • Locomotion more effective when segments can move independently
  • Offers evolutionary flexibility
  • Small change in a segment can produce segment with new function
  • Segments can be modified for various activities

Segmentation First Evolved in Annelid Worms :

  • Repeated segments
  • Visible as ring-like structures along body length
  • Separated internally by partitions
  • Each segment contains digestive, excretory and locomotor organs
  • Fluid in segments creates hydrostatic skeleton that gives the segment rigidity
  • Each segment can expand or contract independently
  • Specialized segments
  • Anterior segments modified with sensory organs
  • Well-developed brain contained within one anterior segment
    Connections
  • Provide ways for materials to pass between segments
    Circulatory system carries blood between segments
    Nerve cords connect ganglia in each segment


Segments not apparent in human adults, visible in embryo

  • Vertebrate muscles develop from repeated blocks called somites
  • Vertebral column segmentation is more apparent