Ctenocyst

/ˈtɛnoʊsɪst/ noun

Definition

A type of specialized sac or pouch found in certain marine organisms that contains comb-like structures used for movement or feeding.

Etymology

From Greek 'ctenis' (comb) and 'kystis' (pouch or sac), literally 'comb-pouch.' This term describes structural features in various invertebrate animals.

Kelly Says

This term highlights how evolution uses the same 'comb' design in wildly different creatures—from microscopic organisms to fish to crustaceans—because it's simply a super-efficient way to move through water!

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