CEPHALOCHORDATE Meaning and
Definition
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Cephalochordate is a scientific term used in zoology to describe a group of small, marine organisms that are commonly known as lancelets or amphioxus. Cephalochordates belong to the phylum Chordata, which also includes vertebrates. However, unlike vertebrates, cephalochordates do not possess a true backbone or vertebral column.
Cephalochordates have a long, slender body that is divided into distinct segments. They possess a notochord, which is a flexible rod-like structure that runs along the length of their body, providing support and stability. Furthermore, they display some characteristics of vertebrates including a nerve cord that runs along their dorsal side.
Cephalochordates are filter feeders, extracting food particles from the water by means of a structure called the branchial basket. This unique structure includes numerous gill slits that allow water to enter and exit, while trapping and filtering out small food particles.
These organisms are typically found in sandy or muddy marine habitats, usually buried partially in the substrate. They are often collected for scientific research due to their relatively simple body plan and evolutionary significance. Cephalochordates are considered to be living fossils, having retained many ancestral characteristics that provide valuable insights into the early evolution of vertebrates.
Common Misspellings for CEPHALOCHORDATE
- xephalochordate
- vephalochordate
- fephalochordate
- dephalochordate
- cwphalochordate
- csphalochordate
- cdphalochordate
- crphalochordate
- c4phalochordate
- c3phalochordate
- ceohalochordate
- celhalochordate
- ce-halochordate
- ce0halochordate
- cepgalochordate
- cepbalochordate
- cepnalochordate
- cepjalochordate
- cepualochordate
Etymology of CEPHALOCHORDATE
The word "cephalochordate" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "cephalo" meaning "head", and "chordate" referring to the phylum Chordata, which includes animals with a notochord or spinal cord. Cephalochordates are a subphylum of chordates and are commonly known as lancelets or amphioxus, which are small, fish-like marine organisms.
Similar spelling words for CEPHALOCHORDATE
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