Acanthopod

/əˈkænθoʊpɑːd/ noun

Definition

An organism or crustacean with spiny legs or leg-like appendages; may refer to creatures with spine-bearing limbs.

Etymology

From Greek 'akantha' (spine) + 'pous' (foot, leg), literally meaning 'spiny foot' or 'spiny-legged creature.'

Kelly Says

Some crustaceans evolved spiny legs as both weapons and tools—the name 'acanthopod' lets scientists instantly picture creatures with legs that are as dangerous as they are functional!

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