GONOPHORE Meaning and
Definition
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A gonophore is a small reproductive structure found in some marine organisms, particularly in the phylum Cnidaria. Specifically, it is a modified polyp that develops and releases medusae or jellyfish.
Gonophores are responsible for the asexual reproduction of certain cnidarians, such as hydrozoans. They are typically located in specialized structures called gonothecae, which are derived from modified hydroids or polyps. The gonophores are attached to the outer surface of the gonotheca or directly to branches of the hydroid colony.
In terms of morphology, a gonophore usually resembles a miniature jellyfish or polyp. It consists of a central hollow cavity called a gastrovascular cavity, surrounded by tentacles used for feeding and capturing prey. The gonophores differ from normal polyps in that they lack a mouth or digestive system since their primary function is reproduction.
The development of a gonophore involves several stages, starting with the transformation of a polyp into a bud-like structure. This bud grows and differentiates into a medusiform structure, eventually detaching from the polyp colony. The gonophore then swims freely in the water, where it undergoes further development and maturation before releasing its eggs or sperm for fertilization.
Overall, the gonophore is an essential component of the reproductive cycle in certain cnidarians, ensuring the dispersal and continuation of the species through asexual reproduction.
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In bot., an elevated or elongated receptacle, bearing the stamens and carpels in a prominent and conspicuous manner.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for GONOPHORE
- fonophore
- vonophore
- bonophore
- honophore
- yonophore
- tonophore
- ginophore
- gknophore
- glnophore
- gpnophore
- g0nophore
- g9nophore
- gobophore
- gomophore
- gojophore
- gohophore
- goniphore
- gonkphore
- gonlphore
Etymology of GONOPHORE
The word "gonophore" is derived from Greek roots. It comes from the combination of "gonos", meaning "offspring" or "generative power", and "phoros", meaning "bearing" or "carrying". When combined, "gonophore" can be interpreted as "carrying offspring" or "bearing reproductive structures". It is a term used in biology to refer to a structure that carries reproductive elements or serves as a reproductive organ in certain organisms such as jellyfish and other cnidarians.
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