OPHIOPLUTEUS Meaning and
Definition
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Ophiopluteus is a term used in marine biology to describe a particular developmental stage of certain marine invertebrates, specifically the larval stage of brittle stars belonging to the class Ophiuroidea. The term "ophiopluteus" is derived from the combination of two words: "ophio," meaning snake or serpent, and "pluteus," referring to a type of larval form found in some marine organisms.
The ophiopluteus larva is distinctive in its appearance, characterized by a flattened body shape resembling a disk or a serpent-like shape, with long arms extending radially from the central body. These organisms typically possess ciliated bands on their body surface, which aid in locomotion and feeding. Ophiopluteus larvae are also often transparent or semi-transparent, allowing for easy observation under a microscope.
The ophiopluteus stage is an important phase in the life cycle of brittle stars as it represents a transitional period between the fertilized egg and the adult form. During this larval stage, ophiopluteus undergoes various developmental changes, growing in size and gradually acquiring the morphological characteristics of an adult brittle star. Eventually, the ophiopluteus will undergo metamorphosis, transforming into a juvenile brittle star and settling on the ocean floor.
The study of ophiopluteus larvae is crucial for researchers and marine biologists to understand the life cycle, development, and ecology of brittle stars. By studying these larval forms, scientists gain insights into the evolutionary adaptations, reproductive strategies, and dispersal patterns of the Ophiuroidea class.
Common Misspellings for OPHIOPLUTEUS
- iphiopluteus
- kphiopluteus
- lphiopluteus
- pphiopluteus
- 0phiopluteus
- 9phiopluteus
- oohiopluteus
- olhiopluteus
- o-hiopluteus
- o0hiopluteus
- opgiopluteus
- opbiopluteus
- opniopluteus
- opjiopluteus
- opuiopluteus
- opyiopluteus
- ophuopluteus
- ophjopluteus
- ophkopluteus
- ophoopluteus
Etymology of OPHIOPLUTEUS
The word "ophiopluteus" is composed of two parts: "ophio-" and "pluteus".
The prefix "ophio-" is derived from the Greek word "ōphis", meaning "snake". This prefix is commonly used in scientific terms related to snakes or snake-like features.
The term "pluteus" is derived from the classical Latin word "plūteus", which originally referred to a wooden framework or barrier used in construction. However, in biology, "pluteus" refers to a type of larval form found in certain marine invertebrates, particularly in echinoderms like sea stars and sea urchins.
Therefore, "ophiopluteus" refers to a particular larval stage found in certain species of brittle stars (a type of echinoderm closely related to sea stars).
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