Endostyle

/ˈɛndoʊstaɪl/ noun

Definition

A ciliated groove or tube in the pharynx of tunicates and lancelets that secretes mucus to trap food particles from water.

Etymology

From endo- (Greek 'within') + style (from Latin stylus, 'pillar' or 'rod'). The term dates to early 20th-century marine biology.

Kelly Says

Scientists think the thyroid gland in your neck—which controls growth and metabolism—evolved from the endostyle of ancient sea creatures, making it a hidden link to our ocean ancestors!

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