OPHIURA Meaning and
Definition
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Ophiura is a term used in zoology to refer to a genus of marine animals belonging to the class Ophiuroidea, which are commonly known as brittle stars. Brittle stars are echinoderms, similar to starfish and sea cucumbers. The genus Ophiura includes numerous species that inhabit oceans worldwide, both in shallow and deep waters.
These organisms have elongated bodies, divided into a central disc and long flexible arms that radiate from it. The disc contains the mouth and digestive system, while the arms are covered with small tube feet used for locomotion and capturing prey. Ophiura species display a remarkable ability to regenerate their limbs if they are damaged or lost, making them highly adaptable and resilient creatures.
These brittle stars are generally found on rocky seabeds or buried in the sand, where they feed on small invertebrates and organic matter. Some species are known to be filter feeders, using their arms to capture plankton from the water column.
Ophiuras are considered to be important components of marine ecosystems, fulfilling roles such as scavengers, predators, and prey for larger marine organisms. They play an essential role in nutrient cycling and the maintenance of biodiversity within their habitats.
Due to their intriguing biology and ecological significance, Ophiura species have attracted scientific interest and are often studied in the field of marine biology.
Common Misspellings for OPHIURA
- ophiuria
- iphiura
- kphiura
- lphiura
- pphiura
- 0phiura
- 9phiura
- oohiura
- olhiura
- o-hiura
- o0hiura
- opgiura
- opbiura
- opniura
- opjiura
- opuiura
- opyiura
- ophuura
- ophjura
- ophkura
Etymology of OPHIURA
The word "Ophiura" has its etymology rooted in Greek. It is derived from two Greek words - "ophis" meaning "snake" and "oura" meaning "tail". Together, these words form "Ophiura", which refers to a genus of brittle stars, marine echinoderms that have long, snake-like arms.
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