Echinoderm

An echinoderm (from Greek 'echinos,' meaning 'hedgehog,' and 'derma,' meaning 'skin') is any marine invertebrate animal of the phylum Echinodermata. Echinoderms are characterized by their radial symmetry (typically five-fold) as adults, a water vascular system for movement and respiration, and an endoskeleton composed of calcareous ossicles (plates or spines). They exhibit diverse forms, including starfish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, brittle stars, and crinoids. Their fossil record extends back to the Cambrian period, making them an ancient and successful group of animals. Echinoderms play crucial roles in marine ecosystems, acting as predators, scavengers, and filter feeders, contributing to the balance of their habitats. Their unique biology and evolutionary history make them a subject of considerable scientific interest.

Echinoderm meaning with examples

• The diver observed a vibrant array of echinoderms, including starfish clinging to the coral reef, sea urchins nestled among the rocks, and the graceful movement of a sea cucumber across the sandy floor. He marveled at their intricate designs and the vital roles they played within the reef's ecosystem.
• Scientists collected samples of echinoderms to analyze their water vascular systems, hoping to understand the mechanisms behind their unique locomotion and feeding behaviors. They studied the distribution of different species, mapping the biodiversity of the seafloor.
• The museum's exhibit showcased a collection of preserved echinoderms, demonstrating the incredible diversity of the phylum. Visitors were amazed by the fossilized remains of ancient echinoderms, showcasing their long and interesting evolutionary past.
• Marine biologists studied the impact of climate change on echinoderm populations, observing a decline in some areas due to ocean acidification and changes in water temperature. They worked to create conservation strategies.
• Echinoderms are often used as model organisms in developmental biology, as their embryos are relatively easy to study and their development shares some fundamental similarities with that of vertebrates, offering insights into evolutionary relationships.