PLASMODIAL Meaning and
Definition
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Plasmodial is an adjective used to describe organisms that exist as a plasmodium, a single-celled multinucleate mass of protoplasm containing numerous nuclei. This term is commonly applied to certain types of slime molds, which are a group of fungus-like organisms belonging to the phylum Myxomycota.
Plasmodial slime molds are unique in their life cycle, where they undergo a striking transformation between their feeding stage and reproductive stage. During the feeding stage, the plasmodium moves in an amoeboid manner by extending pseudopodia, engulfing organic matter (such as bacteria and decaying material), and assimilating nutrients. This phase is characterized by the multinucleate plasmodium, where cell membranes are absent, and the nuclei move freely within the cytoplasm.
When conditions become unfavorable, plasmodial slime molds enter the reproductive stage, forming fruiting bodies, which contain specialized structures called sporangia. Inside the sporangia, the nuclei undergo meiosis, producing spores that are released into the environment. These spores eventually develop into new plasmodial organisms, restarting the life cycle.
Plasmodial organisms are significant in ecological terms as they play a crucial role in decomposition, aiding in the recycling of organic matter and contributing to nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems. Additionally, their unique life cycle and cellular structure make them fascinating subjects for scientific study and research.
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Relating to a plasmodium, or to any species of Plasmodium.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PLASMODIAL
- olasmodial
- llasmodial
- -lasmodial
- 0lasmodial
- pkasmodial
- ppasmodial
- poasmodial
- plzsmodial
- plssmodial
- plwsmodial
- plqsmodial
- plaamodial
- plazmodial
- plaxmodial
- pladmodial
- plaemodial
- plawmodial
- plasnodial
- plaskodial
- plasjodial
Etymology of PLASMODIAL
The word "plasmodial" is derived from the term "plasmodium". The term "plasmodium" has its origins in the Greek word "plasma" meaning "something molded" or "something formed". The suffix "-ium" is a Latin word-forming element that is used to create a noun from a verb or adjective. Therefore, "plasmodium" refers to a mold-like or formative substance. "Plasmodial" is the adjective form of "plasmodium" and is used to describe an organism or structure that exhibits characteristics similar to a plasmodium.
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