Arrhizous

/ærˈraɪzəs/ adjective

Definition

Without roots or lacking a root system, used in biology to describe organisms that don't have true roots.

Etymology

Greek 'a-' (without) + 'rhiza' (root) + '-ous' (adjective suffix). This technical term emerged in scientific Latin to describe rootless organisms in botanical and zoological classifications.

Kelly Says

Tardigrades (water bears) are arrhizous creatures—they're so tiny and independent that they need no root system, and some can survive in space by entering a deathlike state called cryptobiosis.

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