Entoprocta

/ˌɛntəˈprɒktə/ noun

Definition

A phylum of microscopic aquatic animals characterized by having their anus located within a ring of feeding tentacles at the top of their body.

Etymology

Greek 'entos' (within) + 'proktos' (anus), with the '-a' plural suffix. Named in the 1800s when scientists realized these creatures were distinct from bryozoans.

Kelly Says

These creatures are so small and strange that for a long time nobody knew what they were—now we know they're a completely separate branch of the animal family tree with their own unique body plan.

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