Radial symmetry

Radial symmetry is a type of symmetry found in biology and geometry, where an organism or object can be divided into similar halves by multiple planes passing through a central axis. This is a common characteristic in many organisms, particularly those that are sessile or planktonic, as it allows them to be equally aware of their environment in all directions.

Overview

Radial symmetry is especially suited to sessile animals such as the sea anemone, and to planktonic animals such as jellyfish, as these organisms experience their environment equally in all directions. Other examples of radially symmetric organisms include many cnidarians, such as corals and hydras, and echinoderms, such as starfish and sea urchins.

In biology

In biology, radial symmetry is classified under different types based on the number of divisions that can be made through the central axis. These include bilateral symmetry, pentaradial symmetry, and spherical symmetry.

In geometry

In geometry, radial symmetry is a characteristic of objects that can be divided into equal parts by rotating them around a central point. This is often seen in shapes such as circles and regular polygons.

See also

• Bilateral symmetry
• Asymmetry
• Symmetry in biology
• Symmetry in mathematics

References

Radial symmetry Resources
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