Which of the following describes arthropods?

The correct choice highlights that arthropods are organisms characterized by having jointed appendages and bilateral symmetry. This is a fundamental trait of the phylum Arthropoda, which includes a vast array of animals such as insects, arachnids, and crustaceans. The jointed appendages allow for a wide range of movements, which is essential for their survival and adaptation in various environments, while bilateral symmetry means their body can be divided into two mirror-image halves along one plane, a feature that is crucial for their overall body organization and function.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe arthropods. Non-jointed appendage organisms and those without exoskeletons do not fit into this category, as arthropods specifically possess both a hard exoskeleton made of chitin and jointed limbs. Additionally, while there are many organisms that reproduce asexually, arthropods primarily reproduce sexually, with some exceptions. Therefore, understanding the specific characteristics that define arthropods is key to distinguishing them from other groups of organisms in biology.