PENTACRINUS Meaning and
Definition
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Pentacrinus is a term used in biology and paleontology to describe a genus of crinoids, which are marine animals belonging to the class Crinoidea. Crinoids, also known as sea lilies or feather stars, are a group of echinoderms characterized by their flower-like appearance and the presence of extended arm-like structures called "feathers" or "pinnules."
Pentacrinus specifically refers to a genus of crinoids that existed during the Paleozoic era, approximately 450-360 million years ago. Fossil records indicate that Pentacrinus possessed a stalk-like structure, known as a column, which attached them to the sea floor. They also had a calyx or cup-shaped body, from which their feathery arms extended to capture food particles and aid in locomotion.
The name Pentacrinus derives from the Greek words "pente," meaning five, and "krinon," meaning lily. This is because most species within this genus had five feather-like arms, although some variations had more or fewer arms. Pentacrinus exemplifies the morphological diversity within the Crinoidea class, showcasing a unique form of life that thrived millions of years ago.
Today, Pentacrinus crinoids no longer exist. However, their fossils can be found in various parts of the world, offering valuable insights into the ancient marine ecosystems and serving as valuable tools for paleontologists in reconstructing the evolutionary history of crinoids and their ecological significance.
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In geol., a genus of lily-shaped fossil animals having a five-sided stalk-a living species is still found in the Indian seas.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PENTACRINUS
- oentacrinus
- lentacrinus
- -entacrinus
- 0entacrinus
- pwntacrinus
- psntacrinus
- pdntacrinus
- prntacrinus
- p4ntacrinus
- p3ntacrinus
- pebtacrinus
- pemtacrinus
- pejtacrinus
- pehtacrinus
- penracrinus
- penfacrinus
- pengacrinus
- penyacrinus
- pen6acrinus
- pen5acrinus
Etymology of PENTACRINUS
The word "Pentacrinus" is a combination of two Greek words: "penta" meaning "five" and "krinon" meaning "lily". "Pentacrinus" is a genus of extinct crinoids, commonly known as sea lilies, that have five arms radiating from a central body resembling a flower or lily. So, the name "Pentacrinus" refers to the characteristic five-fold symmetry of these marine creatures.
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