ZOOID Meaning and
Definition
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A zooid, in biological terms, refers to a distinct individual organism within a colony or a collective body formed by numerous similar individuals. This unique organism exhibits features of both independent and interdependency characteristics. Typically found in colonial animals such as corals, siphonophores, and bryozoans, zooids may be specialized for specific functions within the collective structure but are unable to survive on their own.
These distinctive individuals contribute to the overall functioning of the colony by performing various tasks such as feeding, locomotion, reproduction, and defense. Depending on the species, zooids may possess specific adaptations, such as tentacles or stinging cells for capturing prey or specialized muscles for movement. While they work together, each zooid maintains a certain level of independence, having its own combination of tissues, organs, and systems.
The term "zooid" originates from the Greek words "zoion," meaning "animal," and "-oid," indicating resemblance or likeness. This definition clearly indicates that a zooid is a unique animal-like entity that functions as part of a larger collective.
Furthermore, in certain contexts, "zooid" can also refer to a reproductive or asexual body that separates from the parent organism and can develop into a new individual. This form of zooid is typically found in some marine invertebrates like sponges and hydroids and adds another layer of complexity to the diversity of this term.
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1. Resembling an animal. 2. A unicellular organism of indefinite classification, a zoophyte. 3. An animal cell capable of independent existence or movement, as the ovum or a spermatozoon. 4. A term sometimes applied to hemoglobin because of its assumed vital properties.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A term used to denote organic bodies, sometimes free and locomotive, which may resemble but are not animals.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ZOOID
- xooid
- aooid
- zioid
- zkoid
- zloid
- zpoid
- z0oid
- z9oid
- zoiid
- zokid
- zopid
- zo0id
- zo9id
- zooud
- zoojd
- zookd
- zoood
- zoo9d
- zoo8d
Etymology of ZOOID
The word "zooid" is derived from the Greek words "zōion" (ζῷον), meaning "animal", and "eidos" (εἶδος), meaning "form" or "shape". In zoology, a zooid refers to an individual or colony of organisms that are morphologically and functionally specialized components of a larger whole, such as certain types of marine animals, colonial organisms like corals and siphonophores, or even reproductive units in plants like mosses and ferns. The term was first coined in the mid-19th century.
Similar spelling word for ZOOID
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