Bothriocidaris

/ˌbɑːθrioʊsɪˈdɛrɪs/ noun

Definition

A genus of sea urchins, named for the groove-like features on their test (shell) structure.

Etymology

From Greek 'bothros' (pit or groove) plus 'cidaris' (a type of sea urchin). The name references the characteristic grooved appearance of the test.

Kelly Says

Sea urchins have been named by scientists based on tiny structural details invisible to casual observers—bothriocidaris is known mainly to marine biologists, but it represents how taxonomy requires incredibly detailed observation of structure.

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