RADIAL SYMMETRY

Radial symmetry refers to the arrangement of body parts around a central axis in a circular pattern. Organisms with radial symmetry have similar body parts arranged around a central point, like the spokes on a wheel Examples of organisms with radial symmetry include sea stars, jellyfish, and certain types of algae.

One example of radial symmetry is what we see on Christmas lanterns, more commonly known as "parols." Even after several rotations and angular perspectives, the lantern still looks like itself because of the repetitive arrangement it has around the central point.

In contrast, organisms with bilateral symmetry have a distinct front and back, left and right sides, and a top and bottom. Examples of organisms with bilateral symmetry include humans, dogs, and insects.