ECHINODERM FAMILY Meaning and
Definition
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An echinoderm family, within the realm of zoology, pertains to a taxonomic classification that groups together a set of species that share similar characteristics and are part of the echinoderm phylum. Echinoderms are marine animals renowned for their pentaradial symmetry, meaning they have a body plan typically organized into five radiating parts. Common examples of echinoderms include starfish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, brittle stars, and sea lilies.
The classification of species into a family within the echinoderm phylum helps to organize and understand the vast diversity and evolutionary relationships between different species. A family is a rank in the hierarchy of biological classification, residing between order and genus. It serves as a common grouping for species that exhibit similar anatomical, physiological, and genetic characteristics, suggesting common ancestry.
Within an echinoderm family, species often share distinctive features such as specific body shapes, skeletal arrangements, locomotion methods, feeding habits, and reproductive behaviors. These shared characteristics provide clues about the evolutionary history and ecological role of the species within the ecosystem.
By studying echinoderm families, scientists can gain insights into the intricate relationships and adaptations that have evolved over millions of years. This knowledge contributes to our understanding of biodiversity, ecosystem functioning, and the conservation of these fascinating marine creatures.
Common Misspellings for ECHINODERM FAMILY
- wchinoderm family
- schinoderm family
- dchinoderm family
- rchinoderm family
- 4chinoderm family
- 3chinoderm family
- exhinoderm family
- evhinoderm family
- efhinoderm family
- edhinoderm family
- ecginoderm family
- ecbinoderm family
- ecninoderm family
- ecjinoderm family
- ecuinoderm family
- ecyinoderm family
- echunoderm family
- echjnoderm family
- echknoderm family
Etymology of ECHINODERM FAMILY
The etymology of the term "echinoderm" comes from the combination of two Greek words. "Echinos" means "hedgehog" or "spiny", and "derma" means "skin". This name was given to these organisms due to their characteristic spiny skin.
The word "family" in the context of biology refers to a taxonomic rank in the classificatiaon of organisms. The term "family" itself comes from the Latin word "familia", which refers to a household or a group of people living together. In biology, a family is a higher rank than a genus but lower than an order in the classification hierarchy. It is used to group related species that share common characteristics.
Similar spelling word for ECHINODERM FAMILY
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