Equicostate

/ˌɛkwɪˈkɑsteɪt/ adjective

Definition

Having ribs or ridges that are equal in size, number, or prominence.

Etymology

From Latin 'aequus' (equal) + 'costatus' (ribbed, from 'costa' meaning rib). This botanical and zoological term describes organisms with uniform ribbing.

Kelly Says

You'll see this term in shell and mollusk descriptions—when a shell has equicostate patterns, the ridges running along it are like nature's own perfectly measured ruler, which can help scientists identify different species.

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