CRINOID Meaning and
Definition
-
A crinoid is a marine animal belonging to the class Crinoidea within the phylum Echinodermata. It is commonly known as a sea lily or feather star.
Crinoids are characterized by a distinctive star-shaped body, most often resembling a flower or feather. They possess a tall, flexible stalk known as a column or stem, which is anchored to the ocean floor. This column is composed of numerous segmented plates called ossicles, providing stability and support. Atop the column is a cup-shaped structure known as a calyx or head, which encompasses the organs and vital parts of the crinoid.
The crinoid body is covered in pinnules or arms that radiate from the calyx, lending them their distinctive feathery appearance. These pinnules are highly flexible and equipped with tiny projections called tube feet, which the crinoid uses for feeding and locomotion. Additionally, crinoids possess a mouth surrounded by feathery tentacles, which capture food particles from the water.
Crinoids inhabit various marine environments, ranging from shallow coastal regions to the deep-sea floor. They are filter feeders, extracting organic matter from the surrounding seawater. Some crinoids are sessile, attaching themselves to submerged rocks or other substrates, while others are capable of limited movement using their flexible arms. Crinoids have a fossil record dating back to the Paleozoic Era, with numerous extinct species identified.
Overall, the crinoid is a fascinating marine creature recognized for its intricate structure, striking appearance resembling a plant, and its important role in the evolutionary history of marine life.
Common Misspellings for CRINOID
Etymology of CRINOID
The word crinoid is derived from the Ancient Greek words krinon, meaning lily, and eidos, meaning form or appearance. The combined term krinoeides was used in ancient times to describe marine animals that were thought to resemble lilies due to their long, branching arms and stem-like bodies. Over time, this term evolved to become crinoid, which specifically refers to a class of marine organisms commonly known as sea lilies or feather stars.
Similar spelling words for CRINOID
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
