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Symmetry is an important aspect in the animal kingdom, with a wide range of types of symmetry present. Depending on the species, animals can display different types of symmetry, which can have a huge influence on behavior and lifestyle. In this article, we’ll take a look at the type of symmetry each of the following animals display.

Bilateral Symmetry

Bilateral symmetry is the most common type of symmetry and it is found in organisms that have a “left” and “right” side, with both sides being equal in size and shape. Examples of animals that display bilateral symmetry include fish, amphibians and most mammals, including humans.

Radial Symmetry

Radial symmetry is a type of symmetry that is often seen in jellyfish and starfish. This type of symmetry is characterized by a circular arrangement of parts which often creates multiple “lines of symmetry”. Radial symmetry is also commonly found in some types of sea anemones and other aquatic animals.

Biradial Symmetry

Biradial symmetry is a type of symmetry that occurs when an organism has two sets of equally sized radial symmetry. Animals that display biradial symmetry typically have two “lines of symmetry”, which could be either horizontal or vertical. This type of symmetry is most commonly found in echinoderms, such as sea urchins and sand dollars.

Spherical Symmetry

Spherical symmetry is a type of symmetry seen in some animals, such as protozoa, sponges and jellyfish. This type of symmetry is characterized by an even distribution of parts, which creates a circular or spherical shape. Spherical symmetry can also be seen in some types of algae and bacteria.

Asymmetry

As asymmetry is a type of symmetry that occurs when an organism has an uneven distribution or arrangement of parts. This type of symmetry is usually found in animals such as worms, mollusks and arthropods, as well as some types of plants and fungi.

Knowing which type of symmetry each of the following animals display can help us to better understand their behavior and lifestyle. As each type of symmetry can offer different benefits, such as protection from predators or the ability to move easily, it’s important to understand how each type is used by different organisms.