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coelenteron

coelenteron

9.9
A sac inside animals like jellyfish and sea anemones that digests food and moves it around
  • noun
  • /siˈlɛnˌtɛrən/
  • Specialized
translation icon : coelenterón
  • The coelenteron of a jellyfish is used for both digestion and circulation.

Examples

  • In sea anemones, the coelenteron connects to the outside through a single opening.

  • Food particles are distributed throughout the coelenteron by muscular contractions.

  • The coelenteron of a jellyfish helps in digestion.

  • In corals, the coelenteron plays a vital role in nutrient absorption.

  • In sea anemones, the coelenteron serves as the main site for digestion and nutrient transport.

  • The coelenteron of a jellyfish is essential for performing both digestive and circulatory functions.

  • Food particles are absorbed in the coelenteron, which is crucial for the animal's survival.

Synonyms

enteron
vscoelenteron
  • Specialized
9.9

A tube in embryos and simple animals that digests food

is a central saclike cavity that also supports circulation as well as digestion

Surface Forms

coelenteron singular
coelentera plural

Morphology

coelenteron = enteron (opaque) = coel + enteron

Formed from Greek combining elements ('coel-' hollow + 'enteron' intestine) that are technical and not known to average learners, so the meaning is not derivable for B1 learners.

Etymology

Coelenteron comes from Greek parts koilos ('hollow') and enteron ('intestine' or 'gut'), so it means a 'hollow gut'. That's why the word names the central sac in jellyfish and sea anemones that does both digestion and circulation.