desmid
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9.9
A single-celled green algae that lives in fresh water with often symmetric, detailed cell shapes
- noun
- /ˈdɛz.mɪd/
- Specialized
:
desmido
- A single desmid can display intricate cell shapes and incredible symmetries.
Examples
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The pond was teeming with various species of desmid visible under the microscope.
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A desmid is often found in freshwater ponds.
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Scientists study desmids to better understand freshwater ecosystems.
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Some desmids can be quite beautiful.
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The pond was teeming with various species of desmid that are visible under the microscope.
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A single desmid can display intricate cell shapes and incredible symmetries.
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Scientists study desmids to better understand the diversity of freshwater ecosystems.
Surface Forms
Etymology
Desmid comes from the old Greek word desmos meaning 'bond' or 'chain'. Many desmids are made of two mirror halves or form short chains of cells, so the name helps you remember their joined, symmetrical shapes.