Metameric segment - Segmentation
On the other hand true metameric segment as best observed in annelids has separate schizocoelic body cavity of mesodermal origin in each segment. Individual segments are budded off in linear sequence from a proliferation region just in front of the posterior end. Segmented animals have a specialized anterior acron (prostomium) and posterior pygidium or telson both of which are not segments. In between there are a varying number of segments.
In near perfect segmentation, appendages, musculature, ganglion, nerves, blood vessels, coelom and all body organs are replicated in each segment. This arrangement is best seen in annelids. In chordates, segmentation is usually apparent in the axial skeleton. Muscles and nerves. Why did segmentation evolve in animal groups? What advantages does it confer on the animals in which it is seen? Let us examine this a little closely. The most important advantage is that segmentation divides a body into a series of compartments, each of which can be regulated almost independently. This in a way provided the framework for specialization. In colonial animals this specialization is seen in polymorphism of zooids while in segmented animals regional specialization of segments occurs.