Actinopoda

/ˌæk.tɪnˈɒp.oʊ.də/ noun

Definition

A superclass of marine protozoans including heliozoans and radiolarians, characterized by radiating pseudopodia called axopodia.

Etymology

From actino- (ray) + -poda (foot, plural). A taxonomic classification grouping organisms with ray-like appendages.

Kelly Says

Radiolarians are part of Actinopoda, and their skeletons are so beautifully geometric that Victorian scientists thought they were evidence of intelligent design—they're now used to date ocean sediments and track oil deposits.

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