Question
Which end of an earthworm contains an organ that can detect smells? Use observations from the lab to support your answer.
Answers
GPT-4o mini
In earthworms, the anterior (or front) end contains the organ that can detect smells, specifically the setae and structures associated with the cerebral ganglion (the earthworm's equivalent of a brain). Observations from the lab may indicate that when an earthworm is exposed to different stimuli, such as food or other odors, it tends to move toward the source of the scent. This behavior suggests that the anterior end, which is also where the mouth is located, is more sensitive to chemical cues in the environment.
Additionally, if lab observations involved observing the earthworm's reaction to various smells placed at different ends, you would likely note that it moves towards the stimuli more rapidly when the odor is presented nearer to the anterior end, indicating the sensory function of this end. The presence of lighter setae and the overall orientation of the worm when it moves can further reinforce that the anterior end is equipped with structures that facilitate the detection of smells.
Additionally, if lab observations involved observing the earthworm's reaction to various smells placed at different ends, you would likely note that it moves towards the stimuli more rapidly when the odor is presented nearer to the anterior end, indicating the sensory function of this end. The presence of lighter setae and the overall orientation of the worm when it moves can further reinforce that the anterior end is equipped with structures that facilitate the detection of smells.