Anoplonemertean

/ˌænɒpləʊnəˈmɜːrtiən/ noun

Definition

A marine ribbon worm belonging to the class Anopla, characterized by the absence of an armed proboscis and simpler internal structure.

Etymology

Combining 'anopla' (unarmed nemerteans) + 'nemertean' (from Nemertes, a figure in Greek mythology). This scientific term emerged in 19th-century marine zoology.

Kelly Says

These worms are living fossils in a sense—their basic body plan is so successful that anoplonemerteans have barely changed over hundreds of millions of years, making them perfect subjects for studying how life adapts to stability.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.