planaria
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- noun
- /pləˈnɛəriə/
- Specialized
:
planaria
- It was speculated that there was a transference of knowledge, probably in the messenger RNA strands of the planaria.
Examples
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Over half a century before, certain experiments on planaria learning had suggested that cannibalism led to the exchange of knowledge.
Fiction book (2002) -
The planaria, a type of flatworm, were tested with a maze and their times recorded.
Fiction book (2002) -
Then the planaria were ground up and fed to a new generation, who could solve the maze in less time than their predecessors.
Fiction book (2002) -
In laboratory experiments, researchers often use planaria to study regeneration due to their unique ability to regrow lost body parts.
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When cut into pieces, planaria can regenerate into complete individual flatworms, showcasing their extraordinary healing capabilities.
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Scientists are fascinated by planaria because they can regenerate not just their tails but also crucial organs like their brain.
Synonyms
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A small flatworm that lives mostly in fresh water and can grow back lost body parts
Surface Forms
Etymology
The word planaria comes from the Latin root plan- meaning 'flat', the same root you see in plane. These small freshwater worms are very flat, so the name points to their flat body and explains why scientists study them in labs to see how they can regrow lost parts.