Why Is the Placenta a Structure That Is Particularly Suited

question 21

Essay

Why is the placenta a structure that is particularly suited as an arena for interfamilial conflicts to play out?

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Definitions:

Deuterostomes

A major group of animals in which the anus develops from the first opening in the embryo, with humans and starfish as examples.

Chordates

A phylum of animals that, at some stage in their life cycle, possess a notochord, a hollow dorsal nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, endostyle, and a post-anal tail.

Lophotrochozoa

A group of protostome animals within the Ecdysozoa, including mollusks, annelids, and several other phyla, characterized by specific larval and ciliary features.

Madreporite

The madreporite is a sieve-like structure found in echinoderms, such as starfish, that serves as an entry point for water into the water vascular system.