Calicles

/ˈkælɪkəlz/ noun

Definition

Plural of calicle; small cup-shaped structures found in plants, corals, and other organisms.

Etymology

Plural form of calicle, combining calix (cup) with the diminutive suffix -le and the plural suffix -s. The term is common in marine biology and botany.

Kelly Says

When scuba divers look at coral under magnification, they see thousands of calicles—each one is a home for a tiny animal that builds limestone, and together they create the whole reef!

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