How Do You Spell SPHAEROMA?

Pronunciation: [sfe͡əɹˈə͡ʊmə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "sphaeroma" may seem confusing, but it is actually quite straightforward when broken down phonetically. The word is pronounced /sfɪˈrəʊmə/, with the emphasis on the second syllable, and is a genus of small, pillbug-like crustaceans. The first part of the word, "sphaero," comes from the Greek word "sphaîra" meaning "sphere," while the second part, "-oma," is a suffix meaning "tumor" or "mass." Put together, the word "sphaeroma" refers to the spherical shape of these creatures.

SPHAEROMA Meaning and Definition

  1. Sphaeroma is a noun that refers to a genus of small marine isopod crustaceans belonging to the family Sphaeromatidae. These organisms are typically found in intertidal zones and shallow coastal waters across the globe.

    Characterized by a distinctive cylindrical body shape, sphaeromas have a robust exoskeleton and are typically small in size, measuring around 1 to 2 centimeters in length. They are known for their ability to roll themselves up into a tight ball when threatened, providing a protective mechanism against predators.

    Sphaeroma species are detritivores, meaning they primarily feed on decaying organic matter and algae which they find on the seafloor. They play an essential role in the ecosystem by helping to decompose and recycle dead plant and animal material, thereby contributing to nutrient cycling in coastal habitats.

    These tiny crustaceans are often used as model organisms in ecological and environmental research due to their high abundance, ease of collection, and simple life cycle. They are also of interest to marine biologists studying their reproductive strategies, behavior, and their ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions. Some sphaeroma species have also gained notoriety for their invasive nature and detrimental effects on native coastal ecosystems in certain regions.

    In summary, sphaeroma refers to a genus of small marine crustaceans that are important decomposers in coastal environments. They possess unique cylindrical body shapes, display a defensive rolling behavior, and play a vital ecological role in nutrient cycling.

  2. A tumor of spherical shape.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for SPHAEROMA

  • aphaeroma
  • zphaeroma
  • xphaeroma
  • dphaeroma
  • ephaeroma
  • wphaeroma
  • sohaeroma
  • slhaeroma
  • s-haeroma
  • s0haeroma
  • spgaeroma
  • spbaeroma
  • spnaeroma
  • spjaeroma
  • spuaeroma
  • spyaeroma
  • sphzeroma
  • sphseroma
  • sphweroma
  • sphqeroma

Etymology of SPHAEROMA

The word "Sphaeroma" has its etymology rooted in ancient Greek. It is derived from the combination of two Greek terms: "sphaíra" (σφαίρα) meaning "sphere" and "oma" (ὅμα) meaning "bulk, mass". Thus, "Sphaeroma" can be translated as "spherical mass" or "spherical creature".

"Sphaeroma" is commonly used as a genus name in biology, particularly in reference to small, marine isopod crustaceans known as "sphaeromatids", which have a somewhat spherical body shape.

Similar spelling words for SPHAEROMA

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