CLEIDOIC Meaning and
Definition
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Cleidoic is an adjective used to describe a type of development in certain animals, particularly reptiles and birds, where the embryo develops inside a closed protective structure with an impermeable shell or membrane. This closed structure allows the developing organism to be independent of its environment, creating a self-contained and protected environment for the embryo.
The term cleidoic is derived from the Greek words "kleistos," meaning closed, and "oikos," meaning house or enclosure. It is used in contrast to animals with open development, such as most fish and amphibians, where the eggs are laid in water and the embryos develop in an aquatic environment.
The cleidoic development typically involves the formation of a specialized shell or egg casing, which provides several advantages for the developing organism. It helps to prevent desiccation, protecting the embryo from drying out in arid environments. It also offers protection against physical harm, predators, and microbial infections. Additionally, the shell or membrane allows for efficient gas exchange between the embryo and the external environment, ensuring a steady supply of oxygen while eliminating the accumulation of waste gases.
Overall, the cleidoic development is a remarkable adaptation that allows reptiles and birds, among other animals, to reproduce successfully in a variety of terrestrial habitats, providing a controlled and safe environment for their embryos to develop until hatching.
Etymology of CLEIDOIC
The word "cleidoic" comes from the Greek word "kleidōsis", which means "closure" or "enclosure". It is derived from the Greek word "kleidō", meaning "to close" or "to shut". The suffix "-ic" is added in English to turn the noun "kleidōsis" into an adjective.
"Cleidoic" is primarily used in biology and refers to an egg that has a hard or leathery shell, such as those of birds, reptiles, and monotremes. These eggs have a protective enclosure that allows development to occur in a terrestrial environment.
