Annelid: meaning, definitions and examples
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annelid
[ˈanəˌlɪd ]
Definitions
biology
An annelid is a type of worm that has a segmented body and bristles on each segment. Annelids are found in various environments, including soil, freshwater, and marine habitats.
Synonyms
bristle worm, segmented worm, worm.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| annelid |
Used in scientific or educational contexts when referring to a member of the phylum Annelida, which includes earthworms, leeches, and marine worms.
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| worm |
A general term that can refer to various soft-bodied, legless invertebrates, not specific to any particular phylum. It is the most commonly used term in everyday language.
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| segmented worm |
Emphasizes the segmented body structure of these worms and is typically used in educational contexts.
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| bristle worm |
Commonly used to describe marine annelids found in saltwater environments, particularly those that have noticeable bristles or hairs.
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Examples of usage
- Earthworms are a common type of annelid found in soil.
- Leeches are another example of annelids that live in freshwater environments.
zoology
In zoology, annelids are a phylum of invertebrate animals that includes earthworms, leeches, and marine polychaetes. They are characterized by their segmented bodies and are important in various ecosystems.
Synonyms
bristle worm, polychaete, segmented worm.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| annelid |
Used in scientific or educational contexts to refer to a broad group of segmented worms that includes earthworms, leeches, and polychaetes.
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| segmented worm |
Employed in both casual and scientific contexts to describe worms with segmented bodies. It serves as a general descriptor within the annelid category.
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| bristle worm |
Commonly used in a more casual or marine biology context to refer to a type of annelid with bristles. These are often found in marine environments.
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| polychaete |
Used in scientific contexts, especially marine biology, to refer specifically to a class of annelids that predominantly live in marine environments and possess many bristles.
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Examples of usage
- Annelids play a crucial role in nutrient cycling in soil ecosystems.
- Polychaetes, a type of annelid, are known for their diverse feeding strategies.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'anellus', meaning 'little ring', referring to the ring-like segments of these creatures.
- Annelids belong to the phylum Annelida, which includes earthworms and leeches, all characterized by their segmented bodies.
Biology
- These creatures play a crucial role in soil health, helping to aerate the earth and break down organic matter.
- Annelids have a closed circulatory system, which is efficient and allows them to transport nutrients throughout their bodies.
Ecology
- Some species are found in fresh water, while others live in marine environments or even on land, showcasing their adaptability.
- Their presence in ecosystems indicates good soil quality, as they are sensitive to environmental changes.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, earthworms are used in composting practices, known as vermicomposting, to recycle organic waste.
- Certain species of annelids are used in medical settings, particularly leeches, for conditions like blood clots.
Evolution
- Annelids are believed to have a common ancestor with other invertebrates like mollusks, tracing back over 500 million years.
- They exhibit various forms of reproduction, including both sexual and asexual methods, displaying their evolutionary versatility.
Translations
Translations of the word "annelid" in other languages:
🇵🇹 anelídeo
🇮🇳 अन्नेलिड
🇩🇪 Ringelwurm
🇮🇩 annelida
🇺🇦 кільчастий черв'як
🇵🇱 pierścienice
🇯🇵 環形動物 (かんけいどうぶつ)
🇫🇷 annélide
🇪🇸 anélido
🇹🇷 halkalı solucan
🇰🇷 환형동물 (환형동물)
🇸🇦 ديدان حلقية
🇨🇿 kroužkovci
🇸🇰 krúžkovce
🇨🇳 环节动物 (huánjié dòngwù)
🇸🇮 kolobarniki
🇮🇸 liðormur
🇰🇿 сақиналы құрт
🇬🇪 მაწვერა
🇦🇿 həlqəqurdu
🇲🇽 anélido