actinula
|ac-tin-u-la|
C2
/ækˈtɪnjʊlə/
larval stage of hydrozoans
Etymology
Etymology Information
'actinula' originates from New Latin, specifically the word 'actinula,' where 'actin-' referred to 'ray' or 'radiating structure' and '-ula' is a diminutive suffix.
Historical Evolution
'actinula' has remained largely unchanged from its New Latin origins, maintaining its specific biological context.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred to a small radiating structure, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern biological usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a larval stage of certain cnidarians, particularly hydrozoans, characterized by a free-swimming, tentacled form.
The actinula stage is crucial for the dispersal of hydrozoans.
Last updated: 2025/04/30 21:51