MADREPORIC CANAL Meaning and
Definition
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The term "madreporic canal" refers to a specific anatomical feature found in certain marine invertebrates, particularly echinoderms such as starfish and sea urchins. The madreporic canal is a tube-like structure that connects the water vascular system of these animals with the external environment.
The water vascular system is a complex network of fluid-filled canals and tubes that functions in locomotion, respiration, and feeding in echinoderms. It is an essential part of their survival and adaptation to their marine environment. The madreporic canal serves as the entry point for sea water into the water vascular system.
Located on the upper surface of the echinoderm's body, the madreporic canal usually begins with a small opening known as the madreporite. The madreporite acts as a sieve or filter, allowing water to enter the canal while filtering out debris or impurities. From there, the canal extends internally, connecting with other canals and transporting water and nutrients throughout the body.
The madreporic canal plays a crucial role in maintaining water balance, as it helps regulate the entry of seawater into the water vascular system. This mechanism allows the echinoderm to control its internal pressure, enabling it to change shape, move, and even manipulate its tube feet for various locomotory purposes.
In summary, the madreporic canal is a specialized tube-like structure that connects the water vascular system of echinoderms to the external environment. It functions as an entry point for seawater, facilitating crucial functions such as locomotion, respiration, and feeding in these marine organisms.
Common Misspellings for MADREPORIC CANAL
- nadreporic canal
- kadreporic canal
- jadreporic canal
- mzdreporic canal
- msdreporic canal
- mwdreporic canal
- mqdreporic canal
- masreporic canal
- maxreporic canal
- macreporic canal
- mafreporic canal
- marreporic canal
- maereporic canal
- madeeporic canal
- maddeporic canal
- madfeporic canal
- madteporic canal
- mad5eporic canal
- mad4eporic canal
- madrwporic canal
Etymology of MADREPORIC CANAL
The word "madreporic" is derived from the Latin term "madrepora", which refers to a kind of coral. The suffix "-ic" in English is used to form adjectives, so "madreporic" means "related to madrepora".
The term "canal" has its origins in the Latin word "canalis", meaning 'pipe' or 'channel.' In biology, a canal refers to a tubular structure that allows the passage of fluids or other substances.
In the context of marine biology, the "madreporic canal" is a tube-like structure found in echinoderms, particularly in sea stars (starfish) and sea urchins. It connects the water vascular system, which is responsible for locomotion and respiration in these organisms, to an external water source.
