Discohexaster

/ˌdɪskoʊˈhɛksæstər/ noun

Definition

A type of siliceous sponge spicule (tiny internal skeleton piece) shaped like a disk with six radiating arms.

Etymology

From disco- (disk-shaped) + hexaster (from Greek hex, meaning six, and aster, meaning star). The term comes from marine biology and the scientific study of sponge anatomy.

Kelly Says

Sponge spicules are among nature's tiniest architectural marvels—a discohexaster looks like a microscopic six-pointed star on a disk, and thousands of them form the sponge's invisible skeleton under the ocean!

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