31. What do you mean by the gait of animals? Explain the movements of
earthworm and fish.
Answers
Answer:
Gait is the pattern of movement of the limbs of animal and humans, during locomotion over a solid substrate. Most animals use a variety of gaits, based on speed, terrain, the need to manoeuvre, and energetic efficiency. Different animal species may use different gaits due to differences in anatomy that prevent use of certain gaits.
The body of an earthworm is made up of many rings joined end to end. An earthworm does not have bones. It has muscles that help to extend and shorten the body. During movement, the earthworm first extends the front part of the body, keeping the rear portion fixed to the ground.
The head and tail of the fish are smaller than the middle portion of the body, and the body tapers at both ends. This body shape is called streamlined. The shape is such that water can flow around it easily and allow the fish to move fast in water.