HYDROZOA Meaning and
Definition
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Hydrozoa is a class of tiny, marine invertebrates belonging to the phylum Cnidaria. They are characterized by their hydrozoan stage, which typically consists of small, colonial organisms. These colonies are made up of individual polyps that are connected through a network of specialized tubes called the coenosarc.
The polyps of Hydrozoa are generally cylindrical in shape with a central mouth surrounded by tentacles. They have a radially symmetrical body plan and are attached to a substrate or floating in the water.
Hydrozoans are known for their ability to alternate between sexual and asexual reproduction. In the asexual phase, the polyps produce small buds called zooids that develop into new polyps and eventually form a colony. The sexual phase involves the release of free-swimming medusae, which are the reproductive form of the organism. These medusae have a bell-shaped body with tentacles and possess both male and female reproductive organs.
Hydrozoa can be found in various marine habitats, including oceans, seas, and freshwater bodies. They play essential roles in marine ecosystems as both predators and prey. Some species are bioluminescent, emitting light as a means of communication or defense.
Due to their small size, hydrozoans are often overlooked by humans. However, their ecological significance and diverse adaptations make them an important group to study in the field of marine biology.
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Gelatinous, oblong, or conical polypes organised like the hydra.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for HYDROZOA
Etymology of HYDROZOA
The word "Hydrozoa" is derived from two Greek words: "hydro", meaning water, and "zoa", meaning animals.
"Hydro" is a combining form that indicates water, derived from the Greek word "hudor". It refers to the aquatic habitat of the organisms belonging to the class Hydrozoa.
"Zoa" is a plural form of the Greek word "zoon", which means animal. It refers to the fact that the organisms in this class are multicellular animals.
Therefore, "Hydrozoa" essentially means "water animals" or "animals of water". This name aptly describes the class of aquatic invertebrates that encompasses various species such as jellyfish, hydroids, and colonial organisms.
Similar spelling words for HYDROZOA
- hydrous,
- hydrocharis,
- hydroxy,
- hydrozoan,
- hydrostatic,
- hydrogenate,
- hydroxyzine,
- hydrogen,
- hydrogel,
- hydroxyl,
- hydrocarbon,
- hydrography.
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