Many-celled
Describing an organism or structure composed of multiple cells, exhibiting a level of complexity that allows for specialization and differentiation of cell functions. many-celled organisms, also known as multicellular organisms, typically have cells that cooperate and are organized into tissues, organs, and organ systems, enabling them to perform complex biological processes. This contrasts with single-celled organisms (unicellular) that carry out all life functions within a single cell.
Many-celled meaning with examples
- The intricate structure of a tree, from its roots to its leaves, is a testament to its many-celled nature. Each part plays a crucial role. Different cell types work together to transport nutrients, conduct photosynthesis, and provide structural support, demonstrating the advantages of multicellularity.
- Unlike the simple structure of a bacterium, a human being is a many-celled organism. Our body comprises trillions of cells, each with a specific role, such as nerve cells that transmit signals or muscle cells that enable movement, illustrating the diversity in cell specialization.
- Consider a microscopic view of a leaf: the epidermis, mesophyll, and vascular tissues are formed from various many-celled structures. Through these, cells cooperate to capture sunlight, exchange gases, and transport water, showing the efficiency gained through cellular division.
- Animal life depends on being many-celled. Consider complex creatures such as lions or elephants, each of which has cells divided into organs with specialized functions, which are crucial for their survival and successful reproduction. This cellular specialization illustrates a sophisticated organization.
- The study of developmental biology reveals how a single many-celled fertilized egg gives rise to an intricate organism. Through cell division, differentiation, and organization, diverse tissues and organ systems arise, showing how different cell types function, cooperating to become a body.
Many-celled Synonyms
metaphyte (for plants)
metazoan (for animals)
multicellular