Aquatic invertebrates Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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aquatic invertebrates
[ษหkwatษชk ษชnหvษหtษชbreษชts ]
Definitions
marine life
Aquatic invertebrates are animals without a backbone that live in water. They include a wide variety of species such as jellyfish, sea stars, and crabs.
Synonyms
marine invertebrates, water invertebrates.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| aquatic invertebrates |
General term used for animals without backbones living in water environments, including both freshwater and marine species.
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| water invertebrates |
Less formal term, can be used interchangeably with 'aquatic invertebrates,' though more commonly in casual or general contexts.
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| marine invertebrates |
Specific term used for invertebrates living in saltwater environments such as oceans and seas.
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Examples of usage
- They observed a diverse array of aquatic invertebrates during their scuba diving expedition.
- Many aquatic invertebrates play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem.
biology
In the field of biology, aquatic invertebrates are essential for studying marine ecosystems and biodiversity. They are often used as indicators of water quality.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| aquatic invertebrates |
Generally used in scientific and educational settings to describe animals living in water that lack a backbone.
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| water invertebrates |
A more casual or general term that can refer to invertebrates living in any type of water, including fresh, brackish, or saltwater.
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Examples of usage
- The research team collected samples of aquatic invertebrates to analyze the health of the river ecosystem.
- Freshwater streams are home to a rich diversity of aquatic invertebrates.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biodiversity
- Aquatic invertebrates constitute approximately 97% of all animal species, showcasing a vast diversity in forms and functions.
- They play crucial roles in aquatic ecosystems, from serving as food for larger animals to participating in nutrient cycles.
Scientific Research
- Research on aquatic invertebrates can provide insights into climate change impacts, as many are sensitive to temperature changes.
- Certain species, like the freshwater mussel, are used as bioindicators to assess the health of aquatic ecosystems.
Ecosystem Roles
- These animals often act as filter feeders, purifying water by removing small particles and pollutants.
- Some, like sponges, contribute to reef building and structure in marine ecosystems, supporting various marine life.
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures around the world utilize aquatic invertebrates for food, especially shellfish, which are considered delicacies.
- Art and literature often reference these animals, symbolizing mystery and the hidden treasures of the deep sea.
Origin of 'aquatic invertebrates'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'invertebrate' comes from Latin, meaning 'without a backbone' โ a key feature of these animals.
- The word 'aquatic' is derived from the Latin 'aqua,' meaning water, highlighting the habitat of these creatures.
The term 'aquatic invertebrates' originated from the combination of 'aquatic', referring to water, and 'invertebrates', which are animals without a backbone. These creatures have existed in various water habitats for millions of years, playing vital roles in aquatic ecosystems.