How Do You Spell PEDICELLARIA?

Pronunciation: [pˌɛda͡ɪsə͡lˈe͡əɹi͡ə] (IPA)

Pedicellaria is spelled with four syllables: pe-də-SE-lə-ree-ə. The first syllable, "pe," is pronounced like "pea," the second syllable, "də," sounds like the "duh," and the third syllable, "SE," rhymes with "they." The fourth syllable, "lə-ree-ə," can be broken down into "lə," which sounds like "luh," "ree," which sounds like "ree" and "ə," which sounds like "uh." Pedicellaria refers to a small, pincer-like structure found on the surface of certain sea creatures, particularly echinoderms.

PEDICELLARIA Meaning and Definition

1. Pedicellaria refers to a small, pincer-like appendage found on the body surface of certain marine invertebrates, particularly echinoderms such as sea stars and sea urchins. The word "pedicellaria" is derived from the Latin words "pediculus," meaning "little foot," and "aria," meaning "related to."

   Typically resembling tiny jaws or claws, pedicellariae are attached to the body surface by a stalk-like structure. They are often found in clusters, especially around the spines or tube feet of the marine organisms. Each pedicellaria consists of two or three movable jaws that can open and close, designed for grasping and capturing small organisms or particles.

   The main function of pedicellariae is thought to be protective. They act as defense mechanisms against potential threats, such as parasites, fouling organisms, or predators. When triggered, they rapidly close, capturing and removing foreign materials or organisms that come into contact with the host's body surface. This can help the organism to maintain a clean and healthy body, limiting the chances of infections or damage.

   Pedicellariae play an essential role in maintaining the overall health and survival of the organisms possessing them. Their intricate structure and mobility enable the organism to actively defend against potential harms, contributing to their overall fitness in their marine habitat.

Common Misspellings for PEDICELLARIA

• pediellaria

Etymology of PEDICELLARIA

The word "pedicellaria" has its roots in Latin and Greek.

The Latin word "pedicellus" means "little foot" or "pedicle" and is derived from "pes" meaning "foot". In biology, "pedicel" refers to a small, stalk-like structure that supports or attaches certain parts of a living organism.

The Greek word "cheilos" means "lip", "rim", or "edge". The combination of "pedicellus" and "cheilos" gives rise to the term "pedicellaria".

In the context of biology, "pedicellaria" refers to small, pincer-like structures found on the body of certain marine invertebrates, particularly echinoderms such as sea stars and sea urchins. These structures resemble tiny claws or jaws and are typically attached to the body by a narrow stalk or pedicel.

Plural form of PEDICELLARIA is PEDICELLARIAE