ACTINOTROCHA Meaning and
Definition
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Actinotrocha is a term used in zoology to describe a larval stage found in marine brachiopods, particularly those of the phylum Phoronida. It refers to a unique, ciliated, free-swimming larva that undergoes metamorphosis to transform into an adult brachiopod.
The name "Actinotrocha" is derived from the Greek words "aktis" meaning ray or beam, and "trokhos" meaning wheel, indicating the distinct appearance of this larval form. Actinotrocha larvae are characterized by a transparent, elongated body shape with a series of radiating wheel-like wheel organs composed of ciliated bands. These bands create a rotating motion that allows the larva to move through the water column.
During the Actinotrocha stage, the larva feeds on organic particles and planktonic organisms using a muscular, ciliated structure called a prototroch. This feeding method is essential for the larva's survival and growth.
As the Actinotrocha develops, it eventually undergoes metamorphosis, attaching to a suitable substrate using filamentous structures called setae. At this point, the larva transforms into a juvenile brachiopod and begins its sedentary life as an adult.
The Actinotrocha larval stage serves as an important dispersal mechanism for brachiopods, allowing them to colonize new habitats and expand their distribution. The unique characteristics and life cycle of Actinotrocha larvae have made them subjects of scientific study and intrigue in the field of marine biology.
Common Misspellings for ACTINOTROCHA
- zctinotrocha
- sctinotrocha
- wctinotrocha
- qctinotrocha
- axtinotrocha
- avtinotrocha
- aftinotrocha
- adtinotrocha
- acrinotrocha
- acfinotrocha
- acginotrocha
- acyinotrocha
- ac6inotrocha
- ac5inotrocha
- actunotrocha
- actjnotrocha
- actknotrocha
- actonotrocha
- act9notrocha
Etymology of ACTINOTROCHA
The word "Actinotrocha" is derived from two Greek roots: "aktis" (ἀκτίς), meaning "ray" or "tentacle", and "trokhos" (τροχός), meaning "wheel" or "spinning". The term was coined by Danish zoologist Johan Heinrich Carstensen Steenstrup in 1851 to describe a peculiar larval form found in some marine invertebrates, especially the phylum Brachiopoda. The name Actinotrocha refers to the characteristic appearance of the larva, which has a crown of ciliated tentacles resembling a spinning wheel or a bouquet of rays.
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