Ctenophora

/tɛˈnɒfərə/ noun

Definition

A phylum of marine animals commonly called comb jellies, which move through water using rows of comb-like cilia.

Etymology

From Greek 'ctenis' (comb) and 'phora' (bearing or carrying), literally 'comb-bearer.' This elegant name perfectly describes these gelatinous creatures.

Kelly Says

Comb jellies are some of the strangest creatures on Earth—they use rows of cilia that create rainbow-like light displays as they swim, and they've been around for 500 million years!

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