Heliozoa

/ˌhɛliəˈzoʊə/ noun

Definition

A group of single-celled organisms found in freshwater that have a spherical shape with ray-like projections radiating outward.

Etymology

From Greek 'helios' (sun) + 'zoon' (animal), literally meaning 'sun animals' because their radiating spines resemble the Sun's rays.

Kelly Says

These microscopic creatures look exactly like tiny suns under a microscope, which is why scientists named them after our star—and despite being nearly invisible, they're fierce predators in pond water.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.