"Ampulla lactifera" is a Latin term that refers to the milk secreting gland in certain mammalian species. The term can be broken down into two separate words: "ampulla" which refers to a container of fluid, and "lactifera" which means "milk-producing." The IPA phonetic transcription for this word would be /æmˈpʊlə læktɪˈfɛrə/, with the stress falling on the second syllables of both "ampulla" and "lactifera." Proper spelling of this term is important for effective communication in the fields of anatomy and zoology.
Ampulla lactifera is a term used in the field of biology, specifically within the context of certain marine organisms. The term describes a specialized structure found in some species of marine invertebrates, most notably in certain types of sea cucumbers.
The ampulla lactifera can be defined as a narrow, elongated tubular structure that is situated within the body of these organisms. It is often found in the gut or digestive system and serves as a distinctive feature of their anatomy. The term "ampulla" refers to a small sac or pouch-like structure, while "lactifera" refers to its function of producing, storing, or secreting a milky or cloudy substance.
In the case of sea cucumbers, the ampulla lactifera is responsible for a unique biological process called "evisceration." During evisceration, sea cucumbers can expel or eject their internal organs, including the ampulla lactifera, as a defense mechanism to deter potential predators. This process provides the sea cucumber with a chance to escape from danger and regrow the expelled organs over time.
In conclusion, ampulla lactifera denotes a specialized tubular structure found in certain marine invertebrates, primarily sea cucumbers, involved in the production or secretion of a milky substance. Its unique significance lies in evisceration, where it is expelled as part of a self-defense mechanism, allowing the organism to regenerate its organs subsequently.
A dilatation of a milk duct just below the nipple, sinus lactiferus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "ampulla lactifera" is a combination of two Latin words: "ampulla" and "lactifera".
- "Ampulla" originally referred to a type of sacred vessel used in ancient Roman religious practices. It typically had a rounded body and a narrow neck. In a more general sense, "ampulla" can also mean a small flask or a container used for holding liquids.
- "Lactifera" comes from the Latin words "lactis" meaning "milk" and "fero" meaning "to carry" or "to bear". Therefore, "lactifera" can be translated as "milk-bearing" or "milk-carrying".
When combined, "ampulla lactifera" can be interpreted as a vessel or container that carries or bears milk.