Clathraceae

/klæθ.ə.ˈreɪ.siː/ noun

Definition

A family of marine sponges (now reclassified) characterized by latticed or basket-like skeletal structures.

Etymology

From Latin 'clathri' (latticework, from Greek 'kleithra' meaning bars or grating) + '-aceae' (botanical/zoological family suffix). Named for their distinctive latticed appearance.

Kelly Says

Deep-sea sponges in this family look like delicate Venus flytraps or bird cages made of glass—their latticed skeletons are so beautiful that scientists have named multiple organisms after this geometric pattern.

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