CHYLOCYST Meaning and
Definition
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A chylocyst is a specialized structure found in certain marine invertebrates, particularly in siphonophores and some species of jellyfish. It refers to a sac-like organ that is responsible for producing and storing the nutrient-rich liquid called chyme.
The chylocyst is an essential part of the digestive system of these organisms, playing a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of food. It is typically located near the gastrovascular cavity, which is the central cavity responsible for the distribution of nutrients in the organism's body.
Within the chylocyst, various digestive enzymes and compounds are secreted, aiding in the breakdown of complex molecules into simpler forms that can be readily absorbed by the organism's cells. Once digestion is complete, the chylocyst stores the resulting chyme until it is needed for nourishment or growth.
In siphonophores, which are colonial organisms composed of numerous specialized individuals called zooids, each zooid possesses its own chylocyst. This allows for efficient nutrient absorption throughout the entire colony.
Overall, the chylocyst can be seen as a fundamental component of the digestive system in certain marine invertebrates, ensuring effective digestion and nutrient absorption from the animal's diet.
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Receptaculum chyli, cisterna chyli.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CHYLOCYST
- chylocqst
- chylocxst
- chylocy3t
- chylocyct
- chylocyqt
- chylocyrt
- chylocys4
- chylocysd
- chylocysp
- chylocysv
- chylocysu
- chylowcyst
- c hylocyst
- ch ylocyst
- chy locyst
- chyl ocyst
- chylo cyst
- chyloc yst
- chylocy st
- chylocys t
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