CEPHALIS Meaning and
Definition
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Cephalis refers to an anatomical structure found in certain marine organisms belonging to the phylum Radiolaria and subclass Polycystina. It is a characteristic feature of these single-celled protozoans that inhabit the ocean's planktonic zone. Cephalis can be described as a bulb-like or spherical capsule located at the anterior end of these organisms. It typically contains a nucleus, cytoplasm, and various specialized organelles.
Functionally, the cephalis plays a crucial role in the survival and reproduction of radiolarians. It serves as a protective covering and acts as a base for the organism's slender skeleton, consisting of microscopic siliceous (glass-like) spicules or delicate latticed networks. The capsule also functions as a sensory apparatus, aiding in the detection of prey, predators, and environmental cues. Moreover, it enables the organism to adjust its buoyancy and maintain equilibrium within the water column.
The term "cephalis" originates from the Greek word "kephalē," meaning head, which accurately reflects its position at the front of these microscopic creatures. Cephalis can exhibit a wide range of intricate forms and structures, varying between different species of radiolarians and even within individuals. These fascinating organisms have been of great interest in ecological, evolutionary, and paleontological studies, due to their diversity and their role as indicators of past environmental conditions in marine ecosystems.
Common Misspellings for CEPHALIS
- cephalus
- cephales
- cefalis
- xephalis
- vephalis
- fephalis
- dephalis
- cwphalis
- csphalis
- cdphalis
- crphalis
- c4phalis
- c3phalis
- ceohalis
- celhalis
- ce-halis
- ce0halis
- cepgalis
- cepbalis
- cepnalis
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