The word "holaster" is a combination of the Greek words "holos," meaning whole or complete, and "aster," meaning star. The correct IPA transcription for "holaster" is həʊlæstə(r). The first syllable is pronounced "hoh" with a long "o" sound. The second syllable is pronounced "la" as in "ladder," followed by "stuh" with a schwa sound, and "er" with a soft "r." Despite its complex phonetic spelling, "holaster" is a relatively simple word, referring to a star-like shape that is complete and whole.
Holaster is a genus of fossil echinoderm belonging to the family Holasteridae, which are extinct sea urchins. They lived during the Late Cretaceous period, from approximately 100 to 70 million years ago.
Holaster specimens are usually found in marine sedimentary rocks and are typically characterized by their distinctive round and slightly flattened shape. They possess a well-developed test, or skeletal structure, which is comprised of numerous small plates that are intricately arranged. These plates provide protection to the internal organs and aid in locomotion.
The majority of Holaster species have been identified based on their test morphology and plate arrangement. The test typically consists of ten columns, each containing a series of plates, with the columns arranged in a radial pattern around the central mouth opening. The plates are often ornamented with various patterns and textures, including tubercles, ridges, or spines.
Holaster fossils are valuable indicators for paleontologists studying the Late Cretaceous period as they provide insights into the ancient marine ecosystem and the environmental conditions of that time. They are commonly collected and studied by paleontologists and enthusiasts for their scientific and aesthetic value.
In summary, Holaster is a genus of extinct sea urchins that lived during the Late Cretaceous period and is known for its distinctive test morphology and plate arrangement.
In geol., a genus of fossil sea-urchins, comprehending those which are heart-shaped.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word holaster is derived from Greek. It is composed of two parts: holos meaning whole or complete, and aster meaning star. Therefore, the etymology of holaster can be understood as whole star or complete star.