CENTRIPETAL CANALS Meaning and
Definition
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Centripetal canals refer to a network of internal passageways or channels that are found in certain organisms, particularly invertebrates such as sponges and cnidarians. These canals function as a means of water circulation within the organism's body.
In sponges, which are multicellular filter feeders, centripetal canals help to transport water that contains food particles and oxygen throughout the organism. The canals are lined with specialized cells called choanocytes, which create water currents by beating their flagella. These currents allow sponges to passively obtain nutrients and oxygen from the surrounding water.
In cnidarians, such as jellyfish and hydroids, centripetal canals serve a similar purpose. Cnidarians have a tubular body plan with a central cavity known as the gastrovascular cavity. This cavity is connected to the external environment through a single opening called the mouth. By utilizing a system of radial canals and tentacles equipped with specialized cells called cnidocytes, water is propelled into and out of the gastrovascular cavity, assisting in the capture of food and disposal of waste.
Overall, centripetal canals play a vital role in maintaining the vital functions of water circulation and nutrient exchange within these organisms. They ensure the efficient distribution of resources, contributing to their growth, survival, and overall physiological processes.
Common Misspellings for CENTRIPETAL CANALS
- xentripetal canals
- ventripetal canals
- fentripetal canals
- dentripetal canals
- cwntripetal canals
- csntripetal canals
- cdntripetal canals
- crntripetal canals
- c4ntripetal canals
- c3ntripetal canals
- cebtripetal canals
- cemtripetal canals
- cejtripetal canals
- cehtripetal canals
- cenrripetal canals
- cenfripetal canals
- cengripetal canals
- cenyripetal canals
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Etymology of CENTRIPETAL CANALS
The word "centripetal" derives from the Latin word "centripetus", which is composed of "centrum" (center) and "petere" (to seek or move towards). It was first used in English in the early 17th century.
The word "canal" originates from the Latin word "canalis", meaning "pipe" or "channel". It was incorporated into English in the 15th century.
The term "centripetal canals" combines these two words to describe the radial canals found in echinoderms, such as starfish and sea urchins, that start from the periphery and move towards the center.
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