How Do You Spell COELENTERATE?

Pronunciation: [sˈiːlɪntəɹˌe͡ɪt] (IPA)

The word "coelenterate" is spelled with a combination of letters that may appear confusing at first glance. However, using IPA phonetic transcription to break down the sounds can help clarify its spelling. The word is pronounced /siːlɛnˈtɛrət/ with the first syllable "coe" sounding like "see", the second syllable "len" pronounced as "len", and the third syllable "terra" pronounced as "teruh". The final syllable "ate" is pronounced as "it", making the entire word "coelenterate" sound like "see-len-ter-it".

COELENTERATE Meaning and Definition

1. A coelenterate, also known as a Cnidarian, is a member of a phylum of invertebrate animals that primarily inhabit aquatic environments. Coelenterates are characterized by a simple body structure that consists of two distinct layers, an inner gastrodermis and an outer epidermis, with a gelatinous layer called mesoglea in between. They are radially symmetrical, which means their body parts are arranged in a circular pattern around a central axis.

   Coelenterates display two basic body forms: the polyp and the medusa. The polyp form is cylindrical and is generally sessile, attached to a substrate. Medusae are free-swimming and umbrella-shaped, possessing tentacles that hang down. These organisms are best known for their unique stinging cells called cnidocytes, which are located on their tentacles. Cnidocytes contain a harpoon-like structure called nematocyst that delivers venom to immobilize prey or for defense against potential threats.

   Most coelenterates are carnivorous and feed on small aquatic organisms, such as plankton or small fish. They have a single opening that acts as both the mouth and anus, called a gastrovascular cavity, which allows for efficient digestion and excretion. Some notable examples of coelenterates include jellyfish, corals, sea anemones, and hydroids.

   Coelenterates play important ecological roles as they serve as a food source for various marine organisms and contribute to the construction of coral reefs, which provide essential habitats for a diverse range of species. These intriguing creatures have captivated the curiosity of scientists and nature enthusiasts, leading to ongoing research to better understand their biology, behavior, and ecological significance.

Common Misspellings for COELENTERATE

• coelentera
• Coilenterate
• Caelenterate
• Celentrate

Etymology of COELENTERATE

The word "coelenterate" is derived from the Greek roots "koilos" meaning "hollow" and "enteron" meaning "intestine" or "gut". This term was coined in 1822 by the German biologist Christian Ehrenberg to describe a group of animals characterized by a central cavity, known as a coelenteron, that acts as both a digestive chamber and circulatory system. Coelenterates include organisms such as jellyfish, sea anemones, and coral polyps.

Similar spelling words for COELENTERATE

• coelenterata,
• coelenteron.

Plural form of COELENTERATE is COELENTERATES