How Do You Spell ROTIFER?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈə͡ʊtɪfə] (IPA)

Rotifer is a microscopic aquatic animal belonging to the phylum Rotifera. The word is pronounced as /ˈroʊtɪfər/ with the stress on the first syllable. The initial "ro" is pronounced like "roh" and the "t" and "f" sounds are pronounced separately. The final "er" is pronounced like "er" in "her" or "fur." The spelling of "rotifer" is derived from the Latin word "rota" meaning wheel and "ferre" meaning to carry. This refers to the rotating wheel-like structure known as the corona that assists in movement and feeding of the animal.

ROTIFER Meaning and Definition

1. A rotifer is a microscopic, multicellular organism belonging to the phylum Rotifera. It is commonly found in freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and streams, as well as in moist soil and even on mosses and lichens. The name "rotifer" is derived from the Latin words "rota" meaning "wheel" and "fer" meaning "bearer," which accurately describes the characteristic wheel-like structure found in their anterior region.

   Rotifers are unique due to their distinct anatomy, particularly the presence of a ciliated crown called the corona. This corona possesses centrally located cilia that generate intricate, rotating movements, facilitating feeding, swimming, and locomotion. Despite their small size, typically ranging from 0.1 to 2 millimeters, rotifers exhibit a remarkable diversity in their body forms and shapes, reflecting their wide ecological adaptability.

   These organisms are primarily filter feeders, extracting organic particles and microorganisms from the water column or sediments using their cilia. They play a crucial role in the aquatic food chain as a source of nutrition for numerous invertebrates and small fish. Some rotifers are capable of surviving harsh conditions by undergoing a process called cryptobiosis, in which they can withstand desiccation and extreme temperatures, and then revive when favorable conditions return.

   Rotifers are a model organism in various scientific studies, aiding research in fields such as ecology, evolution, and developmental biology. With their exceptional adaptability and intriguing life cycle, these microscopic creatures continue to captivate scientists and enthusiasts alike.

2. One of the rotifera, a lcass of infusorial animals - called also wheel animalcules-see rotatories, under rotate.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for ROTIFER

• eotifer
• dotifer
• fotifer
• totifer
• 5otifer
• 4otifer
• ritifer
• rktifer
• rltifer
• rptifer
• r0tifer
• r9tifer
• rorifer
• rofifer
• rogifer
• royifer
• ro6ifer
• ro5ifer
• rotufer

Etymology of ROTIFER

The word rotifer is derived from Latin roots. Rota means wheel, and fer means to bear. The name was given to these tiny aquatic organisms due to the wheel-like appearance of the cilia (hair-like projections) surrounding their heads. These cilia create a rotating motion, hence the term rotifer.

Similar spelling words for ROTIFER

• rothberg,
• root beer,
• rotifera.

Plural form of ROTIFER is ROTIFERS