ENTOMOSTRACAN Meaning and
Definition
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Entomostracan is an adjective used to describe a member of an ancient group of small crustaceans called entomostracans. The term is derived from the Greek words "entomon" which means insect, and "ostrakon" which means shell. Entomostracans are characterized by their small size and their exoskeleton, which typically consists of a hard, shell-like cover that protects their bodies.
These organisms belong to the class Entomostraca, which includes various groups like water fleas, fairy shrimp, and brine shrimp. They are mostly aquatic creatures found in freshwater and marine habitats, although some can also be found in damp terrestrial environments. Entomostracans play important roles in aquatic ecosystems as they are primary consumers, feeding on algae and other organic matter.
The entomostracans exhibit a wide range of body forms and lifestyles. Some species are free-swimming, while others are sessile, attaching themselves to substrates. Many entomostracans are transparent, allowing them to blend into their surroundings and avoid predation. They also possess a variety of reproductive strategies, including sexual and asexual reproduction, depending on the species.
In the field of biology, the term entomostracan can also refer to the study or research of these organisms and their taxonomy, physiology, ecology, and behavior. Scientists study entomostracans to understand their ecological roles, evolutionary relationships, and the impact they have on their respective ecosystems.
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• One of the crustacea so protected.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ENTOMOSTRACAN
- wntomostracan
- sntomostracan
- dntomostracan
- rntomostracan
- 4ntomostracan
- 3ntomostracan
- ebtomostracan
- emtomostracan
- ejtomostracan
- ehtomostracan
- enromostracan
- enfomostracan
- engomostracan
- enyomostracan
- en6omostracan
- en5omostracan
- entimostracan
- entkmostracan
- entlmostracan
Etymology of ENTOMOSTRACAN
The word "Entomostracan" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "entomon" meaning "insect" and "ostrakon" meaning "shell". This term was coined in the 19th century to classify a group of small crustaceans that resemble insects and have a hard outer shell. The prefix "ento-" refers to the insect-like characteristics of these organisms, while "ostracan" refers to their shell or exoskeleton.
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