Sponges:
pores-perforations (holes) in the two-walled body of the sponge; allow water in.
collar cells-flagellated cells that move rapidly back and forth. This movement circulates water and food through the pores of the sponge and out through the opening in the top, the osculum.
Stromatoporoids:
encrusting-attached to a substrate. May be a thin sheet.
massive-hemispherical or subglobular.
branched-just like it says, looks like branches.
laminae-fine feature, runs parallel to the colony surface.
latilaminae-section of laminae stacked between growth lines.
pillars-vertical lines. Cross the laminae at right angles to form a grid like pattern on the outer surface.
astrorhizae-small clusters of small channels; on the monticules.
monticule-small bumps on the surface.
Cnidarians/Corals:
nematocysts-stinging cells in the tentacles; used to kill or stun prey.
medusa-feeding orientation of the Cnidarians; free floating; mouth and tentacles point downward.
polyp-feeding orientation of the Cnidarians; anchored to the substrate; mouth and tentacles point upward.
corallite-skeleton of a coral; base of this is attached to substrate
coelenteron-sac-shaped body cavity of the Cnidarians.
mesentery-folds in the organisms body wall; increase the surface area to aid in absorption and digestion.
calyx-uppermost portion of each corallite
septum-partitions within the corallite.
fossula-gap formed by one or more undeveloped septa
dissepiment-horizontal structures or platforms which extend across each corallite; irregularly shaped (blister-like)
tabulae-horizontal structures or platforms which extend across each corallite; flat plates
epitheca-outer surface of rugose corals
apical end-pointed end of rugose corals
mural pore-hole in the corallite wall
theca-corallite wall
Bryozoa:
autopore-circular opening; tiny
fenestrule-window-like opening; tiny; rectangular; usually larger
than an autopore.
Last updated on February 24, 1997-jlc.