What is bilateria clade?

The Bilateria clade is a group of animals that are characterized by having bilateral symmetry, meaning their bodies can be divided into two mirror-image halves. This symmetry allowed for the evolution of specialized sensory and locomotive structures, such as eyes and limbs, on each side of the body. Bilaterians also have a distinct front (anterior) and back (posterior) end, as well as a top (dorsal) and bottom (ventral) side.

The Bilateria clade is one of the most diverse and evolutionarily successful groups of animals, containing over 99% of all known animal species. It includes a wide range of organisms, from simple worms to highly complex mammals.

Bilaterians are further classified into two main groups: Protostomes and Deuterostomes. Protostomes include animals such as insects, crustaceans, and mollusks, and are characterized by the formation of the mouth before the anus during embryonic development. Deuterostomes include animals such as vertebrates and echinoderms, and are characterized by the formation of the anus before the mouth during embryonic development.

Overall, the Bilateria clade plays a crucial role in the diversity and complexity of the animal kingdom, and continues to evolve and adapt to changing environments.