ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Symmetry in biology

Symmetry in biology means that something looks the same on both its left and right sides. This can be important for animals because it helps them move efficiently and find things like food or mates.

Let's pretend you have a cookie with icing on it. If you cut it right down the middle, each half would look exactly the same. This is an example of symmetry.

In animals, symmetry can be different types. Bilateral symmetry means an animal has two similar halves that are split down the middle, like the cookie. Humans and many other animals, like cats and dogs, have this kind of symmetry.

Radial symmetry is when an animal has equal parts that are arranged around a central point, like a pie with equal slices. Starfish and jellyfish are some examples of animals with radial symmetry.

Symmetry can also help scientists identify different organisms and their relationships to each other. By looking at a creature's symmetry (or lack of it), they can learn more about how it evolved and adapted to its environment.

So, symmetry in biology just means that something looks the same on both sides, and it can help animals move and survive.