Multicellular organisms have specialized structures and organizational levels that help them function effectively. These include:
- Cells: Basic functional units that perform specific tasks.
- Tissues: Groups of similar cells working together on a common function.
- Organs: Structures composed of multiple tissue types organized to perform particular functions.
- Organ Systems: Groups of organs working together to carry out specific functions essential for the survival of the organism.
Additionally, multicellular organisms have specialized tissues such as epithelial tissue (covering surfaces), connective tissue (support and connection), muscle tissue (movement), and nervous tissue (information processing). Their organ systems include cardiovascular, digestive, nervous, respiratory, muscular, endocrine, and others, all coordinating to maintain homeostasis and support life processes. This hierarchical organization and division of labor among cells and systems allow multicellular organisms to maintain internal environments, transport nutrients and wastes, respond to stimuli, and reproduce, enabling their complex functions.