LANCELET Meaning and
Definition
-
A lancelet refers to a small, slender, and translucent marine chordate belonging to the class Cephalochordata. Also known as amphioxus, these semi-transparent creatures inhabit warm coastal waters and are characterized by their compelling resemblance to fish. The name "lancelet" is derived from their characteristic blade-shaped body, tapering at each end. With a length ranging from a few centimeters to a few inches, these primitive organisms are often considered as the simplest form of chordates.
Lancelets possess distinctive features that classify them as chordates. They exhibit a notochord, a linear and flexible structure that extends from their head to their tail, functioning as skeletal support and helping them maintain their body shape. Furthermore, lancelets have a dorsal, hollow nerve cord situated above their notochord, which forms the central nervous system. This foundational nerve cord indicates their evolutionary link to more complex vertebrates. In addition, they possess gill slits that enable respiration and feeding.
These invertebrates dwell in burrows in shallow, sandy seabeds, filtering microorganisms from the surrounding water for nourishment. The lancelet's minimalistic anatomy and feeding habits make them crucial organisms for understanding the evolutionary origins of vertebrates. Researchers often employ lancelets as model organisms for studying developmental biology, genomics, and evolutionary biology. Their significance extends to various scientific fields, providing insights into the early stages of life on Earth and the evolutionary steps leading to the emergence of vertebrates.
Common Misspellings for LANCELET
- kancelet
- pancelet
- oancelet
- lzncelet
- lsncelet
- lwncelet
- lqncelet
- labcelet
- lamcelet
- lajcelet
- lahcelet
- lanxelet
- lanvelet
- lanfelet
- landelet
- lancwlet
- lancslet
- lancdlet
- lancrlet
Etymology of LANCELET
The word "lancelet" comes from the Old French word "lancelot", which is derived from the diminutive form of "lance", meaning a spear or lance. This is because the lancelet has a long, slender body that resembles a spear or lance. The Old French term was originally used to refer to a small, lance-like weapon used in jousting, but it was later applied to the lancelet marine animal.
Similar spelling words for LANCELET
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
