CTENOPHORA Meaning and
Definition
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Ctenophora refers to a phylum of marine invertebrates commonly known as comb jellies. They are gelatinous creatures that have a transparent, delicate body and are found predominantly in saltwater habitats. The term Ctenophora originates from the Greek words "cteno" meaning comb and "phora" meaning bearer, which accurately describes the specialized structure they possess known as cilia combs.
Ctenophores have a distinctive feature of bioluminescence, where they emit a beautiful iridescent glow in the dark waters. They vary in size, ranging from a few millimeters to over one meter long, and display a wide array of striking colors and patterns. Despite their name and appearance, they are not related to jellyfish or any other similar organisms.
The anatomy of ctenophores consists of a gelatinous body that is traversed by eight comb rows, lined with thousands of tiny hair-like structures called cilia. These cilia are responsible for the animal's propulsion and movement in the water, creating a rippling effect that propels them forward, and enabling them to perform graceful swimming maneuvers. They possess a rudimentary nervous system and exhibit a primitive form of bilateral symmetry.
Ctenophores are carnivorous, feeding on other microscopic organisms like plankton, small crustaceans, and fish eggs. They capture their prey using sticky cells called colloblasts located on their tentacles, which immobilize the prey before being engulfed. Despite their fragile appearance, ctenophores possess the capacity for regeneration and can regrow lost body parts.
One notable species within this phylum is the Venus's girdle (Cestum veneris), characterized by its long and narrow ribbon-like body. Ctenophores play an important
Common Misspellings for CTENOPHORA
Etymology of CTENOPHORA
The word "Ctenophora" is derived from the Greek words "cteno", meaning "comb", and "phoros", meaning "bearer". It refers to the characteristic feature of ctenophores, which are a group of marine animals commonly known as comb jellies, comb jellyfish, or sea gooseberries.
Ctenophores have rows of specialized, ciliated structures called "combs" that they use for locomotion. These combs are capable of beating in a coordinated manner, propelling the animal through the water. Hence, the name "Ctenophora" reflects the structural feature that distinguishes these animals.
Similar spelling word for CTENOPHORA
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