Echinoidea
Echinoidea
Echinoidea (pronounced: eh-ki-noy-dea) is a class of marine animals within the phylum Echinodermata. The class is commonly known as sea urchins or urchins.
Etymology
The term Echinoidea is derived from the Greek word "echinos" meaning "hedgehog" and "eidos" meaning "form or likeness". This is due to the spiny appearance of sea urchins, which resembles that of a hedgehog.
Description
Echinoidea are characterized by their round, spiny bodies and lack of arms. They are typically found in oceanic environments, from shallow waters to deep sea. They are known for their ability to move using tube feet and their unique mouth structure, known as Aristotle's lantern, which they use for feeding.
Related Terms
- Echinodermata: The phylum to which Echinoidea belongs. Other classes within this phylum include Asteroidea (starfish), Ophiuroidea (brittle stars), Crinoidea (sea lilies), and Holothuroidea (sea cucumbers).
- Aristotle's lantern: A unique jaw-like structure found in sea urchins, used for feeding.
- Tube feet: Small, suction-like appendages used by echinoderms for movement and feeding.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Echinoidea
- Wikipedia's article - Echinoidea
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