ECHINOSPHAERITES Meaning and
Definition
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Echinosphaerites is a term used in paleontology to refer to a genus of fossilized marine microorganisms known as echinoderm spines. Echinoderm spines are calcified structures found on the exoskeletons of various echinoderms, including extinct species. They served multiple functions such as protection, locomotion, and aiding in feeding and respiration.
The genus Echinosphaerites encompasses a wide range of spine morphologies found in different types of echinoderms. These spines were typically cylindrical or conical in shape and possessed a distinct ornamentation or surface texture, often featuring fine striations or knobs. Echinosphaerites spines were composed of a durable yet lightweight material called calcite, which allowed them to withstand the rigors of marine environments.
Fossils of Echinosphaerites can be found in sedimentary rocks, particularly those of shallow marine environments. Paleontologists study these fossils not only to understand the taxonomy and evolution of echinoderms but also to reconstruct past ecological conditions and paleoenvironments. By analyzing the abundance and distribution of Echinosphaerites spines in sedimentary layers, scientists gain insights into the biodiversity and dynamics of ancient marine ecosystems.
Overall, Echinosphaerites is a genus of fossilized echinoderm spines that played a crucial role in the biology and paleoecology of ancient marine organisms. The study of Echinosphaerites fossils contributes to our understanding of the evolutionary history and past environments of echinoderms.
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In geol., a genus of echinoderms characterised by their small size and globular form.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ECHINOSPHAERITES
- wchinosphaerites
- schinosphaerites
- dchinosphaerites
- rchinosphaerites
- 4chinosphaerites
- 3chinosphaerites
- exhinosphaerites
- evhinosphaerites
- efhinosphaerites
- edhinosphaerites
- ecginosphaerites
- ecbinosphaerites
- ecninosphaerites
- ecjinosphaerites
- ecuinosphaerites
- ecyinosphaerites
- echunosphaerites
- echjnosphaerites
- echknosphaerites
- echonosphaerites
Etymology of ECHINOSPHAERITES
The word "echinosphaerites" is derived from two Greek roots: "echinos" and "sphaerites".
1. "Echinos" (ἐχῖνος) means "hedgehog" or "urchin" in Greek. It is related to the spiny and rounded shape of hedgehogs or sea urchins.
2. "Sphaerites" (σφαιρίτης) is a term derived from "sphaīra" (σφαῖρα), which means "sphere" or "ball" in Greek. "Sphaerites" refers to something spherical or globe-like.
Thus, when combined, "echinosphaerites" describes an object or organism that has a spherical or ball-like shape similar to a hedgehog or a sea urchin.
