Hexactinellidan

/ˌhɛksæktɪˈnɛlɪdən/ noun

Definition

An organism belonging to the class Hexactinellida, particularly a glass sponge.

Etymology

Direct derivative of Hexactinellida with the common biological suffix '-an', used to denote an individual member of a taxonomic group, following Linnaean naming conventions.

Kelly Says

Scientists debate whether these glass sponges are even 'animals' in the traditional sense—they have no brain, heart, or organs, yet they filter-feed and reproduce, existing in a mysterious category of life that challenges how we define what's alive.

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