Enchelycephali

/ɛnˌkɛlɪˈsɛfəlaɪ/ noun

Definition

A taxonomic classification (now obsolete) for a group of invertebrate marine animals lacking distinct head segments.

Etymology

From Greek 'enchelis' (eel-like) plus 'kephalē' (head). This was a 19th-century scientific classification that modern taxonomy has abandoned.

Kelly Says

Early taxonomy tried to categorize ocean creatures with minimal equipment—names like 'enchelycephali' were educated guesses based on appearance, many later proven completely wrong when microscopy advanced.

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