Amniote is a term used to describe a group of vertebrates whose embryos are encased in a fluid-filled sac called the amnion. The spelling of "amniote" is influenced by its root word, "amnion". The correct pronunciation of this word is "æmniət", with the first syllable being pronounced as "am" and the second syllable as "nee-ot". The "oe" digraph is pronounced as a long "o" sound. This word is commonly used in biology, and it is important to spell it correctly to avoid confusion or miscommunication.
An amniote refers to a group of vertebrate animals that possess a specialized membrane called the amnion, which surrounds and protects the developing embryo during gestation. It is a significant evolutionary milestone in the animal kingdom, as the development of the amnion allowed this group of animals to reproduce in terrestrial environments, breaking the dependency on water for egg-laying.
Amniotes include several major groups, such as reptiles, mammals, and birds, all of which share common characteristics and adaptations. They are characterized by possessing an internal fertilization method, which increases their chances of successful reproduction on land. The amniotic egg, another hallmark of amniotes, contains specialized extraembryonic membranes (amnion, chorion, yolk sac, and allantois), which serve essential functions such as gas exchange, waste disposal, and nourishment for the developing embryo.
The amniote lineage emerged around 340 million years ago and quickly diversified into various forms to exploit different ecological niches. Reptiles, including lizards, snakes, turtles, and crocodilians, evolved from amniotes during the Carboniferous period. Mammals and birds, which are the two major groups of extant amniotes, evolved later from reptilian ancestors.
In summary, amniotes are vertebrate animals that possess the unique adaptation of the amniotic egg and are adapted for reproduction and survival on land. They encompass reptiles, mammals, and birds, forming successful lineages that have dominated terrestrial environments for millions of years.
One of the higher vertebrates, the embryo or fetus of which is provided with an amnion.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "amniote" originated from the Greek term "amnion", which means "membrane surrounding a fetus". It is derived from the Greek word "amnos", meaning "lamb", or "lamb's skin", as the amnion was traditionally used to wrap a newborn lamb. The suffix "-ote" indicates a taxonomic group or class. Therefore, "amniote" refers to a class of vertebrates characterized by the presence of an amnion, including reptiles, birds, and mammals.