PLANULA

planula

(noun) the flat ciliated free-swimming larva of hydrozoan coelenterates

Source: WordNet® 3.1


Etymology

Noun

planula (plural planulae)

(biology) In embryonic development, a vesicle filled with fluid, formed from the morula by the divergence of its cells in such a manner as to give rise to a central space, around which the cells arrange themselves as an envelope; an embryonic form intermediate between the morula and gastrula.

(zoology) The larva of a hydrozoan, which is free-swimming and covered in cilia.

Source: Wiktionary


Plan"u*la, n.; pl. Planulæ. Etym: [L., a little plane.]

1. (Biol.)

Definition: In embryonic development, a vesicle filled with fluid, formed from the morula by the divergence of its cells in such a manner as to give rise to a central space, around which the cells arrange themselves as an envelope; an embryonic form intermediate between the morula and gastrula. Sometimes used as synonymous with gastrula.

2. (Zoöl.)

Definition: The very young, free-swimming larva of the coelenterates. It usually has a flattened oval or oblong form, and is entirely covered with cilia.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition



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Word of the Day

22 April 2025

BRIGHT

(adjective) made smooth and bright by or as if by rubbing; reflecting a sheen or glow; “bright silver candlesticks”; “a burnished brass knocker”; “she brushed her hair until it fell in lustrous auburn waves”; “rows of shining glasses”; “shiny black patents”


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