Diplonema

/ˌdɪpləˈniːmə/ noun

Definition

A genus of tiny parasitic worm-like organisms found in marine animals, particularly fish and marine mammals.

Etymology

From Greek 'diplos' (double) + 'nema' (thread). A scientific taxonomic name created in the 19th century for this group of microscopic parasites based on their double-threaded appearance.

Kelly Says

These are so small you need a microscope to see them, but they're everywhere in ocean animals—and they have 'double threads' as their name suggests, which helps scientists recognize them!

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