RETEPORA Meaning and
Definition
-
Retepora is a term used in the field of paleontology and biology to refer to a genus of extinct bryozoans, which are colonial filter-feeding animals. The word "retepora" stems from the Latin terms "rete" meaning "net" and "pora" meaning "pore." This name is attributed to the intricate network of pores that characterizes the skeletal structure of these bryozoans.
Retepora colonies are typically found in marine environments, where they formed extensive colonies that attached to hard substrates such as rocks, shells, or other solid surfaces. The skeletal structure of retepora colonies consists of numerous interconnected branches, which form a dense network resembling a net. These branches are perforated with small pores, making them porous and allowing water to flow through the colony.
The purpose of the porous skeletal structure in retepora colonies is to facilitate the passage of water, which carries food particles that the bryozoans filter and consume. The colonies typically have a branching or bush-like appearance, with individual zooids, the basic structural unit of a bryozoan, residing on the branches. Each zooid has a ring of tentacles surrounding a mouth, which captures and collects food particles suspended in the water.
Retepora bryozoans existed during the Paleozoic era, particularly during the Ordovician and Silurian periods. They were an important part of marine ecosystems during this time, contributing to the diversity and complexity of the benthic communities. Fossilized remains of retepora colonies are often found in sedimentary rocks, allowing paleontologists to study and understand the ancient environments they inhabited.
-
In geol., a genus of fossil bryozoa or compound molluses, which have their cell-pores arranged in net-like order.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for RETEPORA
- retepore
- eetepora
- detepora
- fetepora
- tetepora
- 5etepora
- 4etepora
- rwtepora
- rstepora
- rdtepora
- rrtepora
- r4tepora
- r3tepora
- rerepora
- refepora
- regepora
- reyepora
- re6epora
- re5epora
- retwpora
Etymology of RETEPORA
The word "retepora" is derived from Latin. "Rete" means "net" or "network", while "pora" refers to "pore" or "opening". Therefore, "retepora" combines these Latin terms to describe a net-like or porous structure. In the context of biology, "retepora" typically refers to a genus of bryozoans, which are colonial aquatic invertebrates that form branching structures resembling a net or lattice.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
