CHOANITES Meaning and
Definition
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Choanites refers to a particular genus of extinct marine invertebrate animals that belonged to the phylum Porifera, commonly known as sponges. The classification of choanites falls under the subclass Hyalospongiae and the order Dictyospongiida. These ancient organisms existed during the Paleozoic era, specifically the Silurian and Devonian periods, approximately 400 to 430 million years ago.
Choanites possessed a unique and complex skeletal structure known as choanoskeleton. This skeletal system consisted of numerous tubular elements called choanomeres, which were stacked vertically to form a columnar structure. The choanoskeleton provided stability and support to the organism's body, allowing it to survive in marine environments.
Despite belonging to the sponge phylum, choanites had a distinctive appearance compared to modern-day sponges. These organisms typically exhibited a conical or cylindrical shape, often reaching sizes of several centimeters in length. They were attached to the substrate or other surfaces using a holdfast structure at their base. Choanites were filter feeders, extracting nutrients from the surrounding water using specialized cells called choanocytes.
Fossilized remains of choanites can be found in various regions worldwide, preserved in sedimentary rocks. Paleontologists utilize these fossils to gain insights into the morphology, evolution, and ecological importance of these ancient sponges. The study of choanites contributes to our understanding of the diverse and complex array of organisms that have inhabited Earth throughout its geological history.
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In geol., a genus of spongiform zoophytes occurring in the chalk formation.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CHOANITES
- Coanite
- choanite
- chonite
- xhoanites
- vhoanites
- fhoanites
- dhoanites
- cgoanites
- cboanites
- cnoanites
- cjoanites
- cuoanites
- cyoanites
- chianites
- chkanites
- chlanites
- chpanites
- ch0anites
- ch9anites
- choznites
Etymology of CHOANITES
The word "choanites" is derived from the Greek word "choanē", meaning "funnel". In biology, a choanite refers to a fossil or living organism possessing a funnel-shaped structure called a choanocyte. The term "choanocyte" originated from the combination of "choanē" and the Greek word "kytos", meaning "cell". Choanocytes are specialized cells with a collar-like structure surrounding a flagellum, found in sponges and a few other organisms. The term "choanites" therefore emerged to denote organisms or fossils that possess choanocytes or structures resembling these cells.
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